Oia: The must see sunset in Santorini
Oia built in the northern side of the island was also known as Epano Meria (Upper Side). In our modern days the buildings have been transformed into hotels, guesthouses, restaurants cafes and boutique shops. Oia is world famous for its marvelous sunset.
People from all over the world visit Santorini for their vacation, their honeymoon or even to exchange their wedding vows on this island. It is one of the most romantic places and what makes it even more so is the spectacular sunset as seen from the cliffs of Oia.
Oia is the most picturesque village in Santorini, its location on top of a cliff offers visitors a different view over the volcano, Palea and Nea Kameni, and the small island of Thirasia. The village is filled with tourist and full of excitement from morning to night. As vehicles are not allowed in the village you can leisurely enjoy your walk in the narrow paths. Enjoy the charm of its quaint, white-washed houses with their colorful doors and windows, characteristic of the Cycladic architecture. The curved in buildings, known as captains’ houses ‘kapetanospita’ , sun-kissed verandas, colorful, fragrant flowers and herbs fill the air. Blue dome churches and windmills can be seen everywhere. Oia was seriously damaged in the 1956 earthquake , but all building have been restored and plenty of them are now used to accommodate visitors and offer all modern facilities.
During the day there are many cultural places one can visit, the Maritime Museum, since this area has inspired many artist there are a lot of art galleries worth seeing. You can take a donkey ride to the small port Ammoudi which is 300 steps down a windy path. Enjoy your meal at a local taverna,
have a real taste of fresh fish and sea food, local specialties like fava, tomatoes and wine from the Santorini vineyards.
But whatever you do make sure you are there at the right spot the right time to admire the most wonderful sunset you may ever witness. It seems as if life comes to a standstill. People sit on rooftops, verandas and remain practically speechless for the whole duration of the sunset. The color scheme changes, everything has a hue of orange, the sky, the sea, even the buildings. As the huge yellow ball slowly disappears as it sinks in the Aegean far in the distant horizon. All is calm, peaceful while this magic takes place. It is mythical! Once the sun is out of sight everything comes back to life. It is a moment to be captured forever, in your mind, in your camera to share back home with your loved ones.