Santorini: A Volcanic Jewel Shaken by Recent Events
Santorini
Santorini, one of Greece’s most iconic islands, was formed by massive volcanic eruptions, the most significant of which occurred around 1600 BCE. This catastrophic event, known as the Minoan eruption, caused the center of the island to collapse into the sea, creating the caldera that we see today. The explosion was one of the largest in recorded history and had far-reaching effects across the Aegean region, possibly contributing to the decline of the Minoan civilization on Crete.
Over the centuries, the dramatic cliffs, whitewashed villages, and breathtaking sunsets of Santorini have turned it into a major tourist destination. Every year, millions of travelers visit the island to enjoy its beauty, rich history, and unique volcanic landscape. The tourism industry is the backbone of the local economy, supporting thousands of jobs and businesses.
In early 2025, Santorini faced a significant challenge when over 300 earthquakes struck the island within a short period, alarming both residents and experts. Although scientists have not directly linked this seismic activity to an imminent volcanic eruption, the tremors were strong enough to warrant evacuations. Reports indicate that nearly 9,000 people left the island, leading to a temporary halt in tourism as cruise ships canceled their stops and hotels experienced mass cancellations.
Santorini has started to recover, but recent events have highlighted concerns about the island’s vulnerability and the resilience of its tourism sector. Authorities are closely monitoring the situation and are planning new emergency infrastructure to enhance evacuation procedures in case of future incidents.