View from Fira © Mikael Damkier
Click an image to enlarge
Introduction to Santorini
Study Topics - Physcal Geography
The devastating eruption of 1613 BC (give or take a decade!), produced one of Earth's largest ever explosions, giving rise to the legend of Atlantis and providing Santorini with it's own Bronze Age Pompeii, currently undergoing excavation. The crescent-shaped island of Santorini and smaller Therasia form the outer ring of the now flooded caldera, almost encircling the uninhabited islands of Nea Kameni, Palea Kameni and Aspronisi.
The low-level, white-washed buildings, tiny churches with blue domed roofs and sun-shaded alleyways are typical of the Cyclades islands. Their concentration in places such as the main town of Fira, along the top of sheer cliffs is distinctive of Santorini. These cliffs display layer upon layer of solidified lava and drop 300m into the equally blue waters of the Aegean. This is the inner crescent – the outer crescent boasts sandy beaches of varying colours, dependent on the layer of rock exposed.
Santorini and the nearby island of Anafi are the only places in Europe to experience a hot desert climate. It has no rivers and water is precious.
However, with the rich volcanic soil, climate and unique ecology, and the help of a desalination plant, agriculture thrives – for example there is a small wine industry and Santorini cherry tomatoes are renowned.
Our itinerary to Santorini begins with a Volcano Lecture and Presentation in the company of a leading Volcanologist who will introduce the island and its geological and geographical past. This invaluable introduction will provide countless areas of focus throughout the duration of the tour.
Outline Itinerary - Caldera Experience
Day 1 depart UK / arrive Santorini
Day 2 presentation by Volcanologist / guided boat trip to the caldera and volcano hot springs visit
Day 3 Archaeological Museum / Prehistoric Thira / Guided tour of Oia and Ammounudi
Day 4 Ancient Thira, Perissa Black Beach / Wine Museum
Day 5 depart Santorini / arrive UK
Departures year round | Prices from £548
About Greece - Santorini School Trips
“Santorini has the world's best caldera, the views are stunning. It is so easy to get around the island and see spectacular volcanic deposits which are accessible, clear for students to understand and study in a safe environment.”Roger Birch, Collyers College Show Me More»
