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In 1956, the island of Santorini was hit by an earthquake that destroyed a large part of the island. In Fira, a part of the town was destroyed, but luckily, some of the 18th century buildings were saved.
The town of Fira is a typical Cycladic village made of charming white houses with blue windows and doors, separated from each other by small paved streets. Many of its beautiful buildings were constructed back in the times of the Venetian invasion, including some blue domed churches and sun-bathed verandas that offer an incredible view of the volcano and the sunset.
In our days, Fira is a busy town. During summer and in its high season, the central streets are crowded and filled with all kind of shops, jewelleries, restaurants, cafés, bars and night clubs.
Despite all the tourist traffic concentrated in town, many areas are always quiet. One can find places to relax and enjoy a great view of the island and the surrounding area.
For those in search of a knowing better the culture of the island, an Archaeological Museum museum hosting many items from excavations done in the ancient Minoan settlement of Akrotiri can be visited in the town of Fira The town also has many churches and monasteries such as Agios Minas, the cathedral of Hypapandi, the cathedral of Christ, the monastery of Panagia ton Dominikanidon, Panagia tou Rodariou and the Catholic Cathedral.
There is also the Megaron Gyzi Museum which has a fascinating collection of photos of Fira before and after the earthquake of 1956.
Fira also has a port that was, for many years, the main port of Santorini. Today, this port is only used for cruise boats. From there, boats can take visitors for a tour of the volcano of Nea and Palia Kameni.  More about Fira
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Fira Useful Links |
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Impressions: |
| It’s unlikely that anyone visits Santorini and doesn’t visit Fira and equally unlikely that visitors will be disappointed with the town. The view is tremendous, the architecture astounding and then there’s the museums, churches, restaurants and bars. Of course the downside is that you have to enjoy all it has to offer with a multitude of others. The commercialism and large number of shops are a bit of a nuisance but they fail to hinder one’s enjoyment of this magnificent town. |
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The nearest village is Firostefani which today became the extension of Fira.
- Where to eat/drink: Many restaurants are available in all the village of Fira
- Shops/Minimarket: Many
- Telephone: Many and at the Ote (Telephone center)
- Transportation: The main bus station to all direction and beaches and the taxi station are located in fira's main road. The condition of roads on the island is fairly decent. There are plenty of taxis here and plenty of demand for them. Buses serve major destinations on the island and the port.
- Activities: Plateia Theotokopoulou is the main square of Fira and it is where all the young people meet before going to many café, bars and night clubs. |
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