santotraveler.com The informed travelers newspaper #11 Price: 2 June events Hot places to be Maps 2 guide u The PROTEUS project Goulas of Emporio Local cuisine Architecture of Oia Lighthouses Activities Read & keep, recycle or pass it on to another traveler...
Photo Spot EDITORIAL 02 Picture of the month Oia is one of the most photographed villages in Santorini. From morning till night, the famous village offers plenty of colours, details and spots for everyone to admire, with the sunset being the most popular a raction. Just before entering Oia village and aſter the sunset, you can enjoy the deep blue sky and the stars that start showing themselves, while the lights of the houses make the atmosphere magical! Whether you are at your hotel balcony or at the cobbled streets, just take deep breaths and feel the island energy. www.santorinipictures.gr SANTOTRAVELER the informed travelerʼs newspaper Publisher & Director: Nikos Psarros Editorial group: Carolina Rikaki, Yannis Papafiggos, Marietta Papathanasiou, Lefteris Zorzos, Evi Nomikou, Emily Hooft, Doug Toomey, Nikos Boutsinis, Vangelis Paravas, E. Efesiou, E. Konstantinidou, R. Lavva, Iossif Perros, Laura Burgess, Ifigenia Georgiadou, Dolores Reyes-Pergioudakis, Yannis Pananakis, Christos Alexandris, Markos Valvis Communication: Gina Psarrou, Tereza Karvouniari Vlychada, Santorini, 84700 Greece t: 22860 83481, client service: 6942895545 supported by Santofriends (Santorini Friends Fan Club) www.blog.santofriends.com santofriends Owned & Created by SANTOTRAVELER 2016. All rights reserved. A truly popular destination You surely are in one of the most popular resorts of the planet. Do you think Santorini could be the center of the world? According to 2015 statistics, 636 cruise ships arrived in Santorini and about 790,000 tourists had the chance to visit our island. If we take into consideration the ferries, high speed boats and airplanes too, then is estimated that more than 2,000,000 people came to the island. So, you are one of the lucky visitors of 2016. Or maybe you are a repeater? Many visitors with different cultures give a yearly appointment in Santorini. Some visitors personal history is closely tied to the island: A German iend brings groups of apprentice painters to the island. They sit with their equipment at the medieval castle of the village of Emporeio for several hours to paint the spots that inspire them on their canvas. A Norwegian iend organizes individual tours and rides to various non tourist and off-thebeaten-track places of Santorini. Foreign women who come or live in Santorini look aſter stray animals and have founded the Santorini Animal Welfare Association (SAWA). An American leaves her life and her Master's degree in special education and works in bars for the next 15 years in Santorini. She s still in love with the island! Santorini s energy is the iends inspiration. How about your inspiration? Nikos Psarros
SANTORINI 360 04 Thirassia Well, don t forget that to complete the 360 tour of the caldera you have to visit the neighbour island of Thirassia for amazing views to the whole of Santorini! Keep exploring! Oia Oia definitely offers a stunning view to the volcanoes from the marble pedestrian street, as well as from the ruins of the old medieval castle. Don t hesitate to stroll in the narrow alleys of the settlement in search of the best photo spot and the twin blue dome churches of course. Akrotiri On the way to Akrotiri and the lighthouse at Faros, you can stop at the side of the road for a quick photo of the caldera from a south point of view. Megalochori Moving on, you will find that Megalochori also offers quiet places for enjoying the view. Scripts: Yannis Papafiggos Photo: Carolina Rikaki
St. Markos On the way from Oia to Imerovigli, turn right before Imerovgli and go up the dirt road to St. Markos church where you can enjoy the view in peace! Imerovigli Imerovigli, also known as the balcony of Santorini, offers great view since it is the highest village on the side of the caldera. Pick your favourite spot at the rock of Skaros, or next to the luxury hotels and the beautiful windmills! Firostefani Next stop is Firostefani and the much photographed blue dome church of St. Gerasimos. From Firostefani you can photograph all of Fira, the capital of Santorini. SANTORINI 360 05 Fira Santo Wines Moving towards Megalohori, almost in the middle of the island, turn right at Santo wines and enjoy the view with a glass of white Assyrtico wine or sweet Vinsanto! In Fira you can get great views from the area near the cable car and the square in front of the Metropolis. Santorini s caldera 360o Welcome to the beautiful caldera of Santorini! After all that time you have been looking at the photos of Santorini and its unique caldera, you have finally made it and you are ready to live inside the postcard! Just a minor final issue to be resolved: where are the best spots of the caldera to take photographs and to enjoy the view? Well, a good idea is to start exploring from North to South, constantly changing the angle of the caldera and the view to the active volcano in the middle.
1 Zoodochos Pigi 3 Pyrgos 1 We suggest you have an early morning coffee at a café in Pyrgos, before you make your way to the top of the village. Same as with any other hike at this time of the year, we suggest you start as early in the morning as possible. Walking through the cobblestone streets of Pyrgos, you will at some points have adequate protection from the sun; the biggest part of the path is exposed to the elements of nature. This wonderful little church is tucked into the cliffs, right in the middle of the path between Ancient Thera and Kamari. Its name means in Greek The life giving spring, justified by the fact that here lies the only freshwater spring of the island. Right next to the church is the entrance to the cave, where the spring drips its precious water into some very small natural and manmade pools. Explore it paying attention to the slippery surfaces and the stalactites hanging above your heads. 3 Kamari Ancient Thera 2 This is a settlement which was founded by Spartans during the 9th century BC. We would strongly suggest having a guided tour of the site with a licensed tourist guide, who will bring all the ruins back to life. Allow yourselves an hour and a half to explore and enjoy the vistas, get a drink at the canteen located there, 2 Goulas Tower Castle BUS TERMINAL Camping Emporeio Perissa Perivolos Trekking trail: Pyrgos - Profitis Ilias - Ancient Thera - Kamari This is one of the oldest paths of the island and during its course, you will get to explore Pyrgos and its Venetian Castle. The path will then take to you to the top of mountain Profitis Ilias, before descending towards Mesa Vouno where Ancient Thera lies. Soon after that, you will reach Kamari and its wonderful black sandy beach. Exomitis
Pyrgos, Profitis Ilias, Ancient Thera, Kamari One of the oldest paths of the island Nikos Boutsinis www.santoriniwalkingtours.com SantoriniWalkingTours instagram: @santoriniwalkingtours The trail starts from the beautiful village of Pyrgos. Follow the steps leading to the heart of Pyrgos Venetian Castle, and allow yourselves to capture the aura of this magnificent fortified settlement s past. Strolling through the village, you will discover whitewashed houses, impressive mansions, cozy cafes, quirky galleries and shops. Explore the village and get on the ancient path connecting it with the highest peak of Santorini Profitis Ilias. The partially signposted winding path offers amazing views to the caldera, as well the surrounding Cycladic islands. If you follow it, you will have the chance to truly enjoy a journey back in time, as well as stunning vistas to the entire Aegean Sea. From the very first steps, you will imminently get a clear picture of what life used to be on the island thousands of years ago. Exposed to the elements of nature, the land has been curved into unique shapes. Scattered cave houses and churches are dug into the volcanic ravines, protecting farmers, shepherds and villagers from the harsh weather conditions. The soft rock layers full with ash and pumice, born from a massive volcanic eruption, are vine laden and full with wild herbs. The unique Theran soil produces very few but delicious products. If you look carefully at the arid land, depending on the time of the year, you will notice fields and terraces covered with various crops. Barley, cherry tomatoes, split peas (fava beans), white eggplants and of course vines are waiting for the night mist to provide them with its precious drops. After you have reached the top and the Monastery of Profitis Ilias, follow the sign towards Ancient Thera. You will soon see from a distance one of the least visited, yet so beautiful, sites of Santorini. It is located prominently on the southeastern tip of the island, perched on the top of the Mesa Vouno Mountain - its slopes plunging into the sea. Don t miss out on the chance to visit it. Start your descent towards the northern side of the mountain. After a few minutes you will reach Zoodohos Pigi church. After exploring the church, the cave and the ancient engravings of names on the rocks clinging beneath you, you will reach Kamari, and its wonderful black sandy beach. Take a nice swim and before making your way, you might want to make a stop at one of the little taverns located right on the beach. Enjoy some traditional Greek delicacies and savor the moments you enjoyed while walking on the gorgeous paths of Santorini. TREKKING 07 The new and elegant Italian Restaurant & Pizzeria CONVIVIUM, located in Fira between the Central Square and the Caldera, assures and offers the highest quality and typical Mediterranean flavours. Our menus include a large selection of homemade pasta, fish, meats and dessert. Good wine list. Facilities: Wi-Fi, vegetarian, vegan & gluten free dishes. Available for weddings or business dinners.
Goulas of Nimborio AEGEAN CASTLES 08 m. [pl. Goulades]: The isolated medieval fortified towers in the Cycladic islands. Vangelis I. Paravas, v.paravas@gmail.com blog.paravas.net The Goulas of Nimborio [b] stands at the north of the entrance of Emporio village in Santorini, on the foot of Profitis Ilias Mountain. It is a monumental medieval fourstory fortress, now deserted for more than a century and on the verge of collapse. The Goulas of Nimborio is a unique architectural specimen of its kind, dissimilar to other towers on the island, but analogous to other massive fortified constructions, erected during the era of Venetocracy (13th to 16th centuries CE) in Patmos island and the Peloponnese. It is estimated that the tower was built somewhere between the 14th and 15th centuries CE, or even earlier, possibly preceding the Casteli, the other fortified, but communal settlement of Emporio village. Although the original landlords are unknown, during its early days the Goulas of Nimborio belonged to the Darzenda, one of the oldest Venetian families [a], branches of which survive even up to day in Santorini. More recently (17th to 19th centuries CE) the tower was administered and used by monks of the Monastery of Patmos, which owned extensive land plots and vineyards on the island of Santorini since 1608 CE. Goulas was finally abandoned close to 1880, and ever since it has been decaying to ruins, victim to the persistent Theran seismic and volcanic activity, and eviscerated by locals, exploited as a source of constructing materials (stones), or as makeshift barns and stables. Throughout its centuries-long history Goulas has gradually reached its final forms following multiple additions and construction phases. Up to date at least four discrete construction periods have been identified, whereas during its original phases the tower had only three levels and was considerably smaller. The first two periods lasted throughout the Duchy of the Archipelago era, clearly reflecting the style and architecture of the similar Naxos towers, constructed by the frankish and venetian conquerors. The 3rd construction phase commenced around 1701, as it is mentioned on a marble inscription embedded in the western wall of the tower, long after the fall of the Duchy to the Ottoman Empire in 1579. This phase coincides with the Patmos Monastery administration period, a fact indicated also by the style of the additions and works carried out. Within this period Goulas acquired one more level and its two distinctive angled supportive outer walls, similar to the fortified walls of St. John s Monastery on Patmos island. The 4th phase took place a few years later, during which the fortifications of Goulas were finalised by the addition of one more characteristic angled bracing wall on the northern side of the tower. Α study for the restoration of Goulas was foreseen to be carried out since the end of 2013, by the municipality of Santorini, however there hasn't been any progress up to date, and the tower is at great risk of collapsing. Despite the already known facts for the Goulas of Nimborio, there are still many uncertainties regarding its exact uses, lords and inhabitants throughout its history.
Post scriptum: Goulades [c] should not be confused with the Castelia, which were communal fortified citadels constructed during the medieval times, and after the establishment of the Duchy of Naxos, and the fall and sack of Constantinople in 1204, during the 4th Crusade. In this era the Cycladic islands, Santorini as well, were vulnerable to piracy and exposed to recurring attacks from numerous invaders. The construction of such fortified settlements and towers aimed at the protection of the populace and the landlords from such attacks. [a] Nikos Chr. Aliprantis, 2004, Genealogical History of Santorini, Thiraika Nea Publishing, Athens, pp 246. [b] Demetre Filippidis, 1986 The Dargenta tower on Santorini, in: Selected Specimens of Greek Domestic Architecture during the Ottoman Period.,History of Architecture Research Centre, NTUA, Athens, pp 260. AEGEAN CASTLES 09 [c] Dora Monioudi-Gavala, 2001, The Development of Settlements from the Middle Ages int Recent Times, in: Santorini, Thira, Thirasia, Aspronisi, Ifestia, ed. Ioannis. Mich. Danezis, ADAM /Pergamos Publishing Houses, Athens, pp 595. Thalami restaurant t. (+30) 22860 71009 m. (+30) 6992277559 Petros Restaurant is a family restaurant which was established in 1948 by Passaris family. In 1984 we created Thalami Restaurant and we continue our tradition until today... Every day we choose our products, we add our love and experience and we create and taste every dish individually, as it is based on family recipes. Our hospitality and our smile, together with your preference and your support has kept us close to you until today. Thank you for your preference and support all these years! email: petrosthalamirestaurant@gmail.com Petros fish tavern Reservations t. (+30) 22860 71263
THE PROTEUS PROJECT 10 Plumbing Reservoirs Of The Earth Under Santorini Assist. Prof. Paraskevi Nomikou (University of Athens, Greece) and Profs. Emilie Hooft and Doug Toomey (University of Oregon, USA) The island of Santorini in the eastern Mediterranean is the source of Earth s largest super-eruption in the past 10,000 years. To investigate the structure beneath this picturesque but active volcano, a four-week-long seismic expedition was completed by the United States of America (USA) Research Vessel Marcus G. Langseth and a team of international scientists. The expedition s goal is to understand the deep roots, or magma plumbing system, of an arc volcano. Near the surface the structure of volcanoes is well studied. However, the magmatic system that lies deep in the crust (10-20 km down) remains poorly understood and difficult to study. Santorini, besides being an idyllic vacation spot, is perfect for tackling the problem of imaging the deeper roots of a volcano. It recently experienced significant unrest due to magma recharge, including inflation of the ground and intense earthquake swarms. Since Santorini is a semi-submerged volcanic system, the seismic source of R/V Marcus G. Langseth can be used to collect a very dense 3D marine-land seismic dataset. The expedition was extremely successful and the unprecedented data set will reveal the structure of the Santorini crustal magmatic system and its surroundings in 10 times more detail than any volcano on Earth. To achieve this goal, the scientific team dropped 91 specially designed seismometers to the seafloor and installed another 65 land seismometers on Santorini and the nearby islands. Together, the onshore-offshore network recorded the seismic source of the research ship over 14,000 times. The scientists will now begin analyzing the data, which requires many months of sophisticated processing. During the ship s transits around the volcano, the scientists also mapped new regions of the seafloor. The structure of faults and landslides between the islands of Santorini and Amorgos revealed themselves each day. These measurements may help resolve the enigmatic occurrence of the largest 20th century earthquake in Greece (1956, M 7.5) and its accompanying tsunami. The international team of scientists includes Greek, British, and USA personnel. The project is led by Prof. Emilie Hooft of the University of Oregon, USA. The shipboard Chief Scientists were Profs. Emilie Hooft and Doug Toomey (University of Oregon, USA) and Prof. Paraskevi Nomikou (University of Athens, Greece). The onshore team included Profs. Joanna Morgan and Mike Warner (Imperial College London, United Kingdom) and Prof. Costas Papazachos (University of Thessaloniki, Greece). The National Science Foundation (USA) provided the majority of the expedition s funding (~$3M US). The Greek and British scientists also contributed funding and resources. The Lamont-Doherty Earth Observatory, USA, operates the R/V Marcus G. Langseth for the National Science Foundation. The seafloor seismometers are designed and operated by the Scripps Institution of Oceanography, USA, and the Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, USA. The Geophysical Instrument Pool at the German Research Center for Geosciences and the University of Thessaloniki provided the land seismometers.
THE PROTEUS PROJECT 11 Assist. Prof. Paraskevi Nomikou (University of Athens, Greece) and Profs. Emilie Hooft and Doug Toomey (University of Oregon, USA)
Architectural Analysis of Traditional buildings and complexes: OIA OLD OIA 12 By the National Technical University of Athens Teachers: Prof. E. Efesiou, Assistant Prof E. Konstantinidou, Assistant Prof. R. Lavva. Students: G. Moustaka, L. Demetriadou, E. Lyratzaki, S. Abatzi, I. Miltiadous, C. Shiakallis, A. Panagi, S. Stylianou, E. Bernidaki, K. Poulli, Sicot Laura, Paret Coralie, Reiter Felix. History The settlement of Oia was originally known as ApanoMeria (=upper side) or Agios Nikolaos Castle, and was later named Oia in the 30ies. Oia experienced great economic development until the 19th century when its residents owned 269 ships. The ship owners constituted the powerful upper social class and this can be discerned from their mansions on top of the caldera. When the steam ships appear at the end of the 19th century, the development of Oia is halted abruptly, as production units are relocated in other Greek cities, such as Piraeus. Oia suffered severe damages as the aftermath of the 1956 earthquake, when most buildings were destroyed and abandoned. From 1975 and until1995 the town was part of the preservation and development programme of traditional settlements, led by the Greek National Tourism Organisation. Ever since Oia has been developing and is now one of the most famous resorts in the world. The School of Architecture NTUA places a lot of importance on heritage courses, so that the students get the chance to familiarize themselves with the cultural values we inherit; In that direction, the course of «Architectural Analysis of Traditional buildings and complexes», focuses on the study of architecture in traditional settlements introducing students to the analysis method of their architectural character. At the same time, students are given the opportunity to reflect on the values inherent in traditional settlements and realize the need for those values to be preserved.
A general view of Oia shows a settlement with houses built in succession one above the other along the rim of the caldera. The built environment is in perfect harmony with the impressive relief of rocks following the geological folds. The local architecture derives from the peculiar environment of the area, so the dwellings have a direct interaction with it, while giving the impression that they spur from the volcanic soil. This impression is reinforced by the use of the main building material, the Theran earth or volcanic ash, which is the very soil itself. In fact, it seems that the houses and buildings in general are an expansion of the landscape where they are built. The settlement extends in two areas, in the caldera slopes and the higher, flatter area In the first one, we can see the yposkafa, which are simple workers' houses dug into the pumice. They developed this way as it was easy to construct them and thus, fertile land, which could be cultivated, was saved. Higher up, on the more level grounds stand the grand kapetanospita, the Renaissance inspired captains mansions which are a feature of the island s neoclassical architecture. The famous caldera slopes This part of Oia is built on the lower part of the settlement and its main characteristic is its complicated structure, with winding paths and an unclear separation between public and private properties. The upper area On the other hand, on top of the cliffs the settlement expands in a completely different fashion following a different pattern. There is a more conventional succession and a more logical construction of the buildings. The facades are lined up one next to the other along the main road and they designate the two residential areas. Due to the flatter area and the European influences, the part of Oia with the Captains Mansions is built more meticulously and traditionally, according to the Captains and Merchants upper social class. Here the dwellings have clear outlines, with tall fences, private yards and a formal look. You can visit the Traditional Architecture of Santorini exhibition in Bellonio Foundation in Fira. ARCHITECTURE 13
SANTORINI NAMES 14 Santorini or Santa Irini? The island you are now visiting has had many names over the years. Marietta Papathanasiou In the beginning, it was called Strongyli, meaning the circular one because of its round shape, before the volcanic eruption of the 17th century BC. It was also called Thera, by the Dorian King Theras that inhabited the island and named it after him. This is the official name of Santorini now. And of course, it was also known as Kallisti, meaning the most beautiful one - for obvious reasons! The name Santorini is first used around the 12th century A.D and derives from Saint Irene, the patron saint of the island, and from the small church named after her in the village of Perissa, built in the 5th century A.D. So, what about the rest of the villages? Where do their names come from? Or maybe you have already guessed. Firostefani It s a compound word, formed by Firostefani joining Fira (the capital) and Stefani (wreath), as the two villages are almost entwined. Kamari The word Kamari means (someone s) pride and joy in Greek. It is one of the newest villages of the island, built after the 1956 destructive earthquake that hit Santorini. It may in fact be the residents pride! Kamari Emporio The word Emporio in Greek means trade. This village in Santorini got its name by being the trading center of the island in the past centuries trading even with the pirates! Akrotiri Imerovigli Imerovigli The name of the village comes from the Greek words imera = day and vigla = lookout. The inhabitants of the island had to watch out for the pirates that frequently raided the island, and what better place to do it than Imerovigli? Emporio Akrotiri It is the Greek word for cape. The village was called Akrotiri because, obviously, of its geographical location.
Meet Megalochori Megalochori or Megalochorio is a village whose existence is recorded from the mid-17th century. Iossif Perros Historian - Researcher It is considered one of the most traditional villages of Santorini and has interesting history. The village name ( megalo chorio means big village in Greek) probably comes from the great extent of the vineyard that surrounds the small village. there is a constant effort to revive and preserve the customs and traditions of the place. Among these traditions, some stand out: Easter Traditions, Wedding Customs but also the local festivals, when the patron saint of a church celebrates. MEGALOCHORI 15 It has old houses, dug-in canaves (traditional wineries) and houses built according to local architecture. In the past, the inhabitants were initially farmers and then seamen, and they contributed significantly to the sale and popularity of the Santorinian wine abroad. In the village there are more than 30 churches, isolated beaches and unexplored paths. Megalochori is the birth place of University Professors and Orthodox Church Bishops, and even today 10% Discount with this Coupon Megalochori Santorini 84703 Reservations t.: 22860 81603 marmita restaurant santorini
Useful Phone Numbers (International country MAP OF SANTORINI code for Greece: +30 ) Buses: 22860 25404 Taxi: 22860 22555 Cable Car: 22860 22977 Hospital: 22863 60300 Port Authority: 22860 22239 Airport: 22860 28400 Police: 22860 22649 Fire Brigade: 22860 33199 Legend main road Oia and Ammoudi Isl. Thirasia Riva Manolas Korfos B. Katharos Ammoudi Active Vo 16 second road trekking trail Fira overlooking the Caldera Beach arcaeological site Isl. PA airport port Parking Isl. Aspronisi camping gas station View from Megalochori 1 Faros C. Mavro Voun
C. Mavropetra B. Baxedes B. Paradisos B. Kolumbos C. Kolumbos Oia Finikia B. Pori Bay lcano Imerovigli C. Tourlos Firostefani FIRA 1 Amazing villages B. Xiropigado B. Vourvoulos Vourvoulos B. Monolithos MAP OF SANTORINI Isl. NEA KAMENI Karterados 17 C. Alonaki Mesaria LIA KAMENI Vothonas Athinios Port Exo Gonia B. Avis Pyrgos B. Gyalos C. Loumaradi B. Balos C. Therma Megalochori Episkopi Gonias Ag. Georgios Profitis Ilias Zoodochos Pigi Kamari B. Kamari Ancient Thera Akrotiri Emporeio Perissa B. Mesa Pigadia o B. White Excavations B. Perissa B. Kambia Red Beach B. Almyra Perivolos B. Vlychada B. Perivolos C. Exomitis Archaelogical sites Black beaches
EDUCATIONAL TOURISM 18 Have you ever thought of learning Greek Language and getting in contact with Greek Culture? Ifigenia Georgiadou Greek language, with its rich tradition and masterpieces in literary and philosophical works, is very attractive, even more so because many words of Greek origin are located in other languages Teaching a foreign language in the place where it is spoken is essentially an invitation to travellers to participate to a cultural trip. It is a journey which will remove them from their own "centre of the world", which is usually their country or their city, and bring them in contact with the authenticity of another culture (Cohen, 1979). Greece, with its rich culture, has a lot to offer in this search. In terms of learning a foreign language, culture is not just a stage during a lesson. Learning a language is an invitation to a culture in itself - in order to use the rich cultural resources, and join, as a fictional citizen, this new culture. Accordingly, a journey is always a journey to the language and culture of the Other, as is a trip to Ourselves. Characteristics of the travellers Let us see in short the profile, i.e. the characteristics, needs and expectations of the travellers who decide to learn a language: Usually adult students of a foreign language come to Greece from all over the world, mainly from Western Europe and USA, and are either philhellenes of any profession, or expatriate Greeks. Some of them are teachers or students of ancient and Modern Greek in their countries. They are educated, multilingual and have visited Greece on average 5-6 times at least. The age vary but the average is 45-55. There are many people who learn a foreign language at their 60s or 70s, as we all know now that learning a language is what keeps our brains alive! satisfaction coming from their own selves, either because they decided to learn a difficult, almost exotic language or because their friends and acquaintances admire them. Usually the skill to concentrate and collect their spiritual forces to learn new things, especially when one is not on the learning path for long time, gradually decreases with age. Participating in language courses strengthens their self-image, they feel richer in experiences and are ultimately empowered psychologically (Weiler and Hall, 1992, 8-9). Strangely enough, some of those who insist on learning a difficult language are people who experienced some learning difficulties as children. In empirical research (Georgiadou, 2003) on reasons why many adults learn Greek as foreign language today we can see their desire to feel
Their satisfaction is, in this case, even larger and they feel even more empowered for their learning success. On the other hand, learning a language along with the contact with culture of people who speak this language creates relaxation, offers the feeling of escape from the world of (forced - alienated) labour, and a sense of control on our life and on the experiences that life offers (Chen, Petrick & Shahvali, 2014). Language students often say: "You can t imagine how much I need to devote myself to Greek and forget everything else or," the most important for me is to just forget myself in the language. Greek is... my treatment! ". EDUCATIONAL TOURISM 19 In Santorini the HELLENIC CULTURE CENTRE www.hcc.edu.gr, a leading organisation for learning Greek, has already started its language and culture programmes. We wholeheartedly suggest this experience! References Chen C.C., Petrick J., Shahvali M., Tourism Experiences as a Stress Reliever - Examining the Effects of Tourism Recovery Experiences on Life Satisfaction, Journal of Travel Research August 12, 2014 Cohen Ε., A Phenomenology of Tourist Experiences, Sociology May 1979, vol. 13 no. 2 179-201, 1979 Georgiadou I., Individualised learning in multinational classes of Greek as L2 through the Project Method: the example of integrating cultural and intercultural aspects in the language classroom, Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Intercultural education Greek as L2, 2003 Weiler B. & Hall C.M., Special interest tourism, Belhaven Press, 1992
An American in Santorini: SANTORINI 4 EVER 20 5 Lessons I've Learned From The Greeks Laura Burgess http://www.laurahamburgers.com/ @Laurahamburgers (Instagram) 1. Material Things Are Not Important One of the biggest lessons I ve learned while living in Greece is not to put value on material items. Whether it s an abundance of presents at Christmas or on birthdays, Americans tend to put an emphasis on materials to show someone you love and care about them. While I love giving someone I care about a gift, I realize now it s not so important. Showing a loved one you care can be displayed in different ways like inviting one over for a coffee or for dinner. Even the simple act of supporting family or a partner by lending a hand when they are sick or being happy for them as they celebrate an exciting life goal is showing you care. Support and love come from just simply being there for one another. Especially with someone whom I may see everyday, it s invaluable to give them my ear or advice if they need to talk about something. I believe when the emphasis on material possessions is taken away from the equation, as I ve experienced in Greece a lot of the time, there s more value on creating friendships, supporting one another, and providing favors that are always returned. It s comforting to know that someone always has my back and that makes me happy to do the same. 2. Being Crafty & Creative This would definitely tie into not placing emphasis on material items, but Greeks are some of the craftiest people I ve ever met. In a situation like needing to furnish my home, my first thought would be to go to a furniture store or a second hand store and buy something. The Greeks first thought is how they are going to make what they want. I ve seen comfortable and cozy couches made from pallets, dried seaweed, and a blanket. One of my friends made an elegant outside patio table for her villa from a picture she saw online. And some people make a living by carving sculptures out of pumice from the beach. In Santorini, people really take advantage of what s around them in the environment, from nature to another person s trash, and utilize it to their best ability by making anything and everything, often referred to as up cycling. And if they re really creative, they will use their craft and skill to make a living. Now, I find myself making curtains from scrap fabric and sanding and painting old furniture people have given me or found on the side of the street. In addition to saving money, these are projects I love because of the sense of accomplishment at the end. It gives things character when I can say, I made that. 3. Hospitality Greek people pride themselves on their hospitality skills and for good reason. They are known for their kindness and generosity and having witnessed these traits on more than one occasion, I can attest to that. Everyone greets me hello and goodbye with two kisses, one on each cheek. They mean it when they say they want to get a coffee and just chat. Everyone is interested in where I m from, obviously not Greece, and what I m doing here. Even strangers are quick to smile and say hello. The lady who works at the coffee shop now gives me the local discount, having seen my face many times. I was fortunate enough last year to be invited on a week long walking tour to three different Greek islands, Amorgos, Naxos, and Iraklia, all in the Cyclades. While in Amorgos and walking through a village, which was the start of an ascent to the top of the mountain, an elderly woman from the village invited my group in to see her home. She had conveniently prepared loukoumades, a traditional Greek donut, and rakomelo, a liquor drink mixed with honey, which she so kindly offered us. It was the start of a long hike and her treats could not have been more perfect. She was so nice, giving us a tour of her home with old pictures lining every surface. After, we stuffed ourselves full of loukoumades and rakomelo and before my group left, the woman brought out flowers, made from an
old t-shirt and pipe cleaners and gave them to each woman in my group. A trip to Greece would not be complete without an experience like that one. It s quite common for a Greek to invite you into their home so casually, for coffee or for a drink. It s just their hospitable way. 4. Using Direct Communication At least in my experience, Americans tend to be indirect when it comes to communicating, often incorporating passive aggressiveness or subtle hints to get the intended message across. I find this irritating in many ways, mostly because I m left guessing. Just like a lot of other Europeans, Greeks are not shy about saying how they feel. They will tell you if you made them happy or upset or if they need or want something, they will just ask. Even if my outfit looks bad, they will mention perhaps I should change. And they expect the same in return. Greeks become uneasy when it comes to indirect communication. They respect and appreciate directness. During my time in Santorini, I ve heard many stories of bad days and how the island stress is getting the best of someone. If my partner is mad or upset with me, there s no holding back. Most of the time, I appreciate hearing what he has to say, but I m not so much a fan of the direct communication style when he tells me I tend to interrupt people. I guess we all have room for a little self-improvement. Living most of my 26 years in NC, USA, I only heard about bad days and stressors from close friends and family. If I was upset with someone, I would perhaps discuss it with someone other than the actual person whom I am upset with, but even that was kept to a minimum. In Greece, if I m passing an acquaintance while I m out, which happens quite often, and I ask how their day is going, I better expect an honest answer. Whether it s good or bad, they will tell me about it with no filter. It s quite refreshing and real to hear the truth. There s no sugarcoating; it just is what it is. 5. Patience Is Key Because Island Time Is Real For those who know me well, I m not the most patient person, especially when it comes to waiting on others. Yet, every day in Santorini I find myself "patiently" waiting for someone to meet me even though I'm on time or waiting off to the side while friends catch-up. It seems that all events start at a later time than specified. Everything runs at a more relaxed pace so patience I ve learned, is key to staying calm. Unlike in America where it seems like everyone is always in a rush, the Greeks take a laidback approach and don t feel the need to be on time, all the time. If someone is late, they are just late and there s nothing you can do about it. More often than not, my days never go as planned because something unexpected comes up or things take a longer time than I accounted for. However, despite the lateness and playing the waiting game, my days always work out for the best. I ve learned not to rush because the other person is probably running late, too and while I wait on whatever and whomever it may be, I make use of that time by trying to learn some Greek. Sometimes, I simply just relax, admire my surroundings, and embrace the Greek way of life. SANTORINI 4 EVER 21 KAPARI TAVERNA: Mediterranean cuisine Mediterranean cuisine is the food from the cultures adjacent to the Mediterranean Sea. Although this region spans a wide variety of cultures, the historical connections of the region, as well as the impact of the Mediterranean Sea on the region's climate and economy, have led to there being many common elements in the foods. Grandmother's recipies Our foods are based to old, traditional recipies, our grandmother's recipies! Kapari taverna Fira - Santorini - Greece (main road Fira - Firostefani) T. +30 22860 27086 santorinikapari www.santorinikapari.gr
AEGEAN LIGHTHOUSE 22 In Search of Gavdopoula Light Dolores Reyes-Pergioudakis I was on a mission to locate the southernmost lighthouse in Greece for the book The Lighthouses of Greece. After exploring the lighthouses on the very large island of Crete, my British friend, Liz and I, drove South where we would begin what we expected to be a day-long excursion. Planning to stay the night on Crete, we located a lovely room that seemed to float over the water. We bought tickets for the ferry to Gavdos Island. Determined to find the lighthouse, off we embarked with camera and tripod in hand. After the ferry took off, I heard an announcement that the ferry would remain on Gavdos Island merely for 30 minutes and would then return. Panic struck! Would we make it to the lighthouse and back? From a map, I could see that the lighthouse was located in the center of the island. The problem was that I didn t know the size of the island. We had considered neither the option that the ferry would return so quickly, nor that we would have to stay overnight on Gavdos Island equipped only with a backpack and camera equipment. I recognized a man that had driven a bus onto the ferry and asked him if it was possible to get to the lighthouse and back in 30 minutes. The bus driver, Dimitris, told me that it was impossible. Panic struck again! We did not travel from the mainland to Crete Island overnight, drive all the way from the north to the south of Crete Island, then ferry over to Gavdos Island and end up not getting a photo of Gavdopoula Lighthouse for the book! The photo was definitely more important than having a suitcase; so it was decided that we would unexpectedly remain overnight on Gavdos Island. Staying overnight was not the only hurdle in reaching the lighthouse. Dimitris told us that the bus route did not reach the lighthouse located at the summit of the island. He offered to give us a ride on his bus to a car rental place, since it was quite a distance from the port. We gladly accepted his offer. Without the presence of road signs, we used our sense of direction to navigate through the few dirt roads on the wobbly wheels of the rental car to the island s summit. We were thrilled to find the Gavdopoula Lighthouse Museum, which was a replica of the original lighthouse. The beacon was perched on a skeleton metal tower to the side of the museum, and not in the actual light room of the tower. I recalled being told by a historian at the Lighthouse Service Headquarters that one of the oldest lighthouse keepers alive was located on Gavdos Island. I asked the caretaker of the museum, George, if he knew anything about that keeper. To my absolute delight, he said that it was his father! He also told us that his grandfather was a keeper at this lighthouse, and both his grandfather and father were present when the Germans bombed and destroyed the original lighthouse. I asked if he could arrange a meeting with his father, because we were doing research for a Greek Lighthouse book. He said that unfortunately his father was hospitalized on Crete Island, but might possibly return the following day. He would set up a rendezvous and asked us to meet him that evening to confirm for the next day. Liz and I rented a room for the night and awaited word from George. We arrived at the Mermaid Taverna, which had candle-lit tables on the beach. The only light came from the kitchen and sounded as if a generator was producing the electricity. George arrived with good news. His father was due to arrive the next morning, and we could meet and interview him for the book. We returned to our room, but were surprised to find that the light switch didn t work. We looked outside and it was pitch dark. The whole place was dark. A woman heard us and approached us. Don t you know this island has no electricity? That is the attraction of the island! That is why I come here. If you don t like it, then you can leave. Wow, we thought, not only did we not have clothes to change into, we would also have to take a shower in the dark and feel our way around the room. It was certainly Greek to us! The obstacles were well worth it. We met Artemis Damorakis, 87 years old, in 2008. He explained that the previous week he had almost died in the hospital, but felt that today was a new day and he was happy to meet us and share information about the Gavdopoula Lighthouse. He recalled his active years at the lighthouse before it was destroyed in World War II. There were eight light keepers, who rotated duty, with four keepers always on
station. That was an unusually large amount of staff for a Greek lighthouse, but it was a critical point for navigation and also a fueling station for ships. He recalled the supply ship coming only once a year, and a donkey carrying everything from the ship landing to the lighthouse. He spoke of inspections, punishments to those who were found asleep on duty, and rainwater stored in cisterns for later use that was never wasted. He spoke of the daily housekeeping duties of a lighthouse keeper, including washing, cooking, gardening and fishing. He recalled the winds, earthquakes, and lightning striking the lighthouse. There was a lot of damage, but the most devastating blow happened during World War II. The Germans invaded Gavdos Island and detonated explosives, which set the lighthouse on fire. A full year s supply of petroleum had just been delivered, so we could only image the horrific site of the lighthouse station burning for three days. After the lighthouse was destroyed, Artemis and his brother went to fight the Germans. He survived the war, but his brother was killed. Artemis returned to Gavdos Island after the war, and found the lighthouse ruined and replaced by a metal tower with a light on top. He was glad to see the structure authentically rebuilt in 2003. The Gavdopoula Light has been serviced by three generations of the Damorakis family. Emanouel Manolis Damorakis was the first to serve as keeper in the early years of the 20th century, then Artemis served until the lighthouse was destroyed, and now his son, George, is the caretaker of the museum in the replica lighthouse Now that s a Greek Lighthouse family! Note: You can learn about Greek lighthouses in The Lighthouses of Greece by Elinor DeWire and Dolores Reyes-Pergioudakis, available through Amazon. ISBN: 978-1-5614-452-0 GAVDOS ISLAND To Santorini CRETE AEGEAN LIGHTHOUSE 23
DID YOY KNOW 24 The lively colors of the frescoes in the ancient city of Akrotiri are still vividly preserved to this day, 3500 years later, because the ash of the Minoan volcanic eruption in the 17c. BC covered and protected them from corrosion. 06 Greece is the third top wedding destination, after Italy and France, for couples wishing to get married abroad. The active volcanic island of Santorini, Nea Kameni, hosts seven craters while the largest crater is called Georgios, named after the former king of Greece. 01 On 8 November (the Archangels Michael and Gabriel name day), a fair takes place in a small church in Nea Kameni 04 03 The amazing rock formations on the east side (Karterados beach) and south side (Vlychada beach) of the island are the result of corrosion of pumice due to strong winds and rain During the second half of the 19th century many harbour works such as the Suez Canal, the ports of Constanta, of Chios island, of Syros island and of Piraeus as well as the Canal of Corinth were built with Thiran Earth extracted from Santorini 07 02 The three main varieties of white wine characterized as PDO Santorini (Protected designation of origin) are Assyrtiko (85%), Athyri and Aidani (14%). Other varieties, at smaller percentages are Gaidouria, Katsano, Platani and Potamisi. 05
FUNNY TIME 26 World Trivia The Shortest place name is Å and it is located in both Sweden and Norway. There are the 17 active volcanoes in Japan Only female mosquitoes will bite you. The sum of all the numbers on a roulette wheel is 666. Jacuzzi is a brand name. You can also buy Jacuzzi toilets and mattresses. The first email was sent in 1971. 95% of the seas is still unexplored. The first country where women voted was New Zealand (1893) French eat 500 million snails a year. A camel can drink 200 litres of water in 15 minutes. Only 2% of world population are blond. FIND THE HIDDEN WORDS & DISCOVER SANTORINI! AKROTIRI CHURCHES COASTLINE CRUISE FIROSTEFANI THIRASIA VINEYARDS VINSANTO VOLCANO
Eel in Greece Smoked Eel on Lentil Salad To Psaraki info@topsaraki.gr www.topsaraki.gr Ingredients (for 4 persons) 200 gr large lentils 200 gr smoked eel 8 cherry tomatoes (from Santorini if possible) 1 big onion 4 slices of bread Oregano Parsley Dill 2 Laurel leaves 2 Scallions Olive oil Vinegar Lemon Salt & Pepper Preparation Boil the lentils with the laurel leaves until they are tender. Drain them and add salt, pepper, oregano, oil, vinegar while they are still warm. Chop the tomatoes, the onion, the parsley and the dill and add some oregano. Mix them with the warm lentils and serve in 4 plates. Place the toasted slices of bread over the lentils. Grill or fry the eel for a few seconds and place it over the slices of bread. Place the cherry tomatoes and the chopped scallion around the bread and pour some olive oil and lemon over the eel. Bon Appétit! Eels in Greece We always choose a Greek eel. Eels live in river deltas and in lagoons, so they can be found in salt, fresh and brackish water, most commonly in Amvrakikos Bay, Lake Vistonida and Vatopedi. The fillet is sliced from the fatty adult eels and has been a delicacy since ancient times. The recipe is provided by chef Thanasis Sfugaris from the quality food restaurant To Psaraki (the small fish) which overlooks the fishing port of Vlychada. LOCAL CUISINE 27 To Psaraki info@topsaraki.gr www.topsaraki.gr Vlychada, Santorini, 84700 t: 22860 82783
Heatstroke (Sunstroke) Heatstroke is caused by a failure in the thermostat in the brain HEALTH 28 MDr. Markos Valvis Ear, nose and throat specialist Fira, Santorini (opposite the post office) t. 22860 25559, m. 6977748754 santomarval@gmail.com Heatstroke is caused by a failure in the thermostat in the brain. This regulates body temperature. The body then becomes dangerously overheated usually due to a high fever or prolonged exposure to heat. Heatstroke can also result from the use of drugs such as ecstasy. In some cases, heatstroke follows heat exhaustion, when sweating ceases and the body then cannot be cooled by the evaporation of sweat. Heatstroke can develop with ver Recognition The symptoms may include: Headache. Dizziness and discomfort. Restlessness and confusion. Hot, flushed and dry skin. A rapid deterioration in the level of response. A full bounding pulse. A body temperature above 40 C (104 F). Treatment Your aims are to lower the person's body temperature as quickly as possible and arrange urgent removal to hospital. You need to quickly move the person to a cool place and remove as much of the outer clothing as possible. Call an ambulance. Wrap the person in a cold wet sheet and keep the sheet wet until the temperature falls to 38 C (100.4 F), under the tongue or under the armpit. If no sheet is available, fan the person or sponge them down with cold water. Once the person's temperature appears to have returned to normal replace the wet sheet with a dry one. Always monitor and record the vital signs, the level of response, pulse and breathing rate until help arrives. If the temperature starts to rise again repeat the cooling process. Caution though: if the person becomes unconscious, open the airway and check breathing and be prepared to give rescue breaths and chest compressions if necessary, or if the person is unconscious but breathing normally place them into the recovery position. Please refer to the relevant tips. The best spot for hairdressing, nail services, waxing, massage, sauna and makeup. Exclusive wedding packages! Main Road from Fira to Pyrgos. Tel 22860 33678. Fz Beauty Salon and Spa
Agenda CULTURE June Cultural and Educational Tourism The Hellenic Culture Centre www.hcc.edu.gr, a leading institution which is well known for Greek Language and Culture courses, organises two-hour Greek language for beginners at your hotel and two-week Greek Language Courses. Presentation of Santorini, singing Greek songs, traditional dance lesson, walks in Megalochori or from Megalochori to Pyrgos or Emporio, winery tours, visit to a local producer, ceramics lesson, iconography painting workshop and many more. Tel +302286082820, +306944105484, Megalochori, opposite Geromanolis tavern. June Traditional Architecture of Santorini 30 The students from the Department of Architecture of the National Technical University of Athens exhibit their project on the unique and timeless architecture of Santorini settlements. At Bellonio Foundation in Fira. Daily 10:00-14:00 except Saturday and Sunday. Free admission 4 June - 30 September ORANGE WATER Exhibition and Concert ORANGE WATER Festival presents four exhibitions under the auspices of the Ministry of Culture and Tourism and the Netherlands Embassy. The exhibitions include painting, sculpture, videos and installations from major Greek, Dutch and international visual artists. The opening of the first exhibition takes place on Saturday 4 June at 20:00 and will be accompanied by a concert by Angelika Dusk. Free entrance. In Santorini Arts Factory, Vlychada 4 June Classical Music Concert Two Greek musicians, a pianist and a saxophonist, are giving an evening classical music concert. At Bellonio Foundation, in Fira. Free admission 11 June WKF Santorini Cup 2016 Greece vs Ukraine 16 WKF, Muay Thai and Kick Boxing matches are held today among Santorinian, Greek and Ukrainian athletes, under the auspices of the World Kickboxing Federation. At DAPPOS Sports Center in Karterados. At 20.00 12 June Cooking Contest Famous Greek chef Elias Mamalakis is the judge at the cooking contest, where Pyrgos residents prepare traditional recipes with local products. At the Cultural Village Santorini of the Past, in Pyrgos. Santorini calendar Mon Tue Wed Thu Fri Sat Sun 01 02 03 04 05 06 07 08 09 10 11 12 Watch our weekly broadcast with travel news & events... 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24 25 26 27 28 29 30 full moon on 20 June www.santotraveler.com
17-18 June Morfes Ekfrasis A theatrical play for children who comment on the grown-ups way of thinking, with live music and special effects on stage. A story about refugees and children s adventures during war and peace. In Mesaria and Thirasia 25 June Book Presentation Dr Sotiris Adamidis is presenting his poem collection entitled Pyrrazei gar o ouranos (= Fire in the sky). In Pyrgos 21 June Paraxenes Meres The Greek rock group performs songs from their own album as well as popular Greek and foreign hits. In Kamari 23 June Famileia A music story about the past, tradition and families by Santorinian singer Manolis Fytros & his band. In Perissa 30 June Fishermen Celebration The annual celebration of the traditional fishing methods that Santorinians used takes place tonight, with wine, music and dance for everyone. In Perissa, at 19.00 Note Please bear in mind that the dates and times of the events may change without prior notice. Daily updated information at: www.blog.santofriends.com EVENTS 31