Therassia

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Even though Therassia is located very close to Santorini, it is quite far from the frenzy rhythms of those who live on the opposite side. It is almost as if the eruption of the volcano in 1600 B.C. was so definitive that the two islands were kept away from each other not only in geological but also in cultural terms.

By the time you arrive in Therassia, you will understand that you have come to a place that cannot be possibly conquered by tourism. As you walk through the island’s villages, Potamos, Agrilia, and Manolas, you will come across narrow pathways where genuine islanders walk. The bell towers of the churches and the houses are colored with bright shades of blue, yellow, and green, and the landscape is complemented by multi-colored flower beds.

There are 21 churches on the island and all locals take part in the festivals organized.

The main harbor of Therassia is Riva and you can reach it, by ferry boat from Athinios or by a small boat from Ammoudi which sails on a regular basis. There, you will find a sandy beach as well as the small church of Aghia Eirini.

Built inside a ravine, Potamos (potami is the Greek word for river) is the first inhabited village you will come across on the island. Most of the houses of this village are built inside the volcanic rock. Among the most well known churches there are Panagia Giatrissa and Aghios Dimitrios.

Agrilia is the oldest and largest village in Therassia. It has an especially picturesque landscape with houses built into volcanic rock as well as canavas. In the village, you will find the church of Panagia of Eisodia or Panagia of Lagadi which has a unique architecture that dates back to 1887.

The capital of the island is Manolas, which is built on the caldera cliffs and has a magnificent view of Santorini island. The church of Aghios Konstantinos, dating back to 1874, can also be found here.

Kera was an inhabited area about thirty to forty years ago. Today, the area offers many memories of that times as well as a wonderful view. It is well worth getting a complete picture of the island by visiting the monastery Analipseos (the monastery of the Ascension) which can be reached by following the pathway from Manolas.