Oia

The most picturesque village on Santorini, exactly opposite Therassia. Up until World War II, Oia was still the commercial center of the island. Oia, so devastated by the 1956 earthquake that it was largely abandoned, has enjoyed a remarkable revival since the 1970s and many of the once dilapidated houses have been carefully restored. The charming vernacular architecture of Oia, variegated by stately Neoclassical captains’ mansions (kapetanospita). As the visitor wanders through the narrow streets of Oia, a different picture confronts him every step of the way. The settling and the architecture, both secular and sacred, are distinguished by their refinement and grace, result of the creative imagination of folk masons. A visitor can watch the houses clinging to the caldera walls. Behind the build shallow facades the rooms continue deep into the volcanic ash. Right below Oia is located the small harbor of Oia, Ammoudi, with a frequent boat service to Therassia. Set against the fire-red rocks, the waterfront cafes and tavernas are a favorite haunt of visitors in the summer months.