Thíra

Thera, also known as Santorini, is a Greek island located in the southern Cyclades group in the Aegean Sea. Geologically, it is the remaining eastern half of an exploded volcano, with a bow-shaped rim surrounding a lagoon that contains active volcanic islets. The island is primarily composed of lava and pumice, which is its main export. Red-wine grapes are also cultivated there.12

The island was known as Calliste in antiquity and was inhabited before 2000 BCE. A massive volcanic eruption, estimated to have occurred around 1500 BCE or possibly in the 1620s BCE, is one of the largest known. This eruption's ash and pumice have been found as far away as Egypt and Israel, leading to speculation that it may have inspired the legend of Atlantis and stories in the Book of Exodus.2

Archaeological discoveries, particularly near Akrotiri, have revealed a well-preserved Minoan city buried under volcanic debris, showcasing multi-story houses with fine frescoes and indicating strong Bronze Age connections between Crete and Thera.2