Perhaps the most enduring and magical image of the Greek islands is the iconic view of blue-domed churches overlooking a cobalt sea. This postcard-perfect scene is the signature shot of Santorini and has made the Cycladic isle a staple on many a bucket list.
Though its picture-perfect vineyards and whitewashed villages are beguiling – and it’s not hard to see why they draw in plenty of visitors – Santorini’s geography tells of a much more violent past: those cliff-top churches gaze out on a sea-filled volcanic crater. And it’s not hard to escape the crowds if you want a more peaceful visit.
