Santorini: 10 Facts and Curiosities about Santorini

We all know that Greece has some of the most paradisiacal beaches in the world, is totally open for tourism and affordable, but it is far from just that. I am visiting the country for the second time and I confess that I am increasingly interested in the Greek people and culture and so I decided to gather in this post some basic facts and curiosities, the intention is to keep updating with new discoveries.

Orthodox

Greece’s official religion is Chritian Orthodox; but most young Greeks I met don’t identify themselves as religious.

The Dance

Greece is known for it’s joyful traditional dance. Traditional Greek dance is mostly a social function. It brings the community together at key points of the year, such as Easter, the grape harvest or patronal festivals; and at important individual’s events like weddings. This tradition has it’s own orders such as the elders join first and so on visitors tempted to join in a celebration should try not to violate these arrangements. In Santorini there are cafes and bars and restaurants that play the traditional music.

Greetings

People greet each other with kisses and hugs, last time I was in Santorini  it was a common sight to see men to shake hands then hug and kiss each other on the cheeks. Unlike the Netherlands where people kiss three times on either cheek the Greeks do one kiss on both the left and the right side of the face

The markets

There are numerous stalls, street markets in Santorini selling typical fruits, great cheese, olives, fried sea food, Souvlaki, and Uzo which is a strong spirit often enjoyed on ice. Night markets are also popular.

Eat well

Greek cuisine is delicious, aromatic and affordable. You can find fresh seafood at a food for under £10 Euros, or sample the menu at one of the world’s finest restaurants for 60 Euros. The food consists of bbqed meats and long and slow cooked meat in an stew like broth. There are plenty of vegetarian dishes and salads made with local cheeses such as feta and hallumi.

Museum

Two main museums are Archaeological Museum and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera. Plenty of amazing ancient artefacts can be found. The Mansion of Argyros, an outstanding neoclassical place, has been turned into a museum that takes visitors to the 19th century. Another jewel is the Folklore Museum which boasts an old winery, a library, an art gallery and a lovely chapel. The naval history of Santorini is revealed in the Naval Maritime Museum through books, documents and nautical equipment. The Icons and Relics Collection presents priceless ecclesiastic items that date back to the 16th, 17th and 18th century. A different museum is that of Minerals and Fossils where invaluable collections from Greece and the rest of the world are kept. Amazing multi-purpose tours are held at the Wine Museum, where guests have the opportunity to taste and learn more about the renowned product of Santorini.

The nicknames

I made some friends in during my stay in Santorini and they all had nicknames. Some were chosen in good natured humour. The guys barely called each other by their actual name.

Colours and architecture

Santorini is world renowned for it’s unique architecture and the very characteristic colours. The town is built upon red rocks with white painted walls and blue ceilings. You can embark on many different tours to see this absolutely stunning and picturesque town.

Verditct

Whether you are going for a cultural holiday to a historic place or to relax by a beautiful sea, Santorini offers an amazing and dreamy experience. I highly recommend it to anyone visiting Greece.