Firá is the modern capital of the Greek Aegean island of Santorini. A traditional settlement, "Firá" derives its name from an alternative pronunciation of "Thíra", the ancient name of the island itself.
Fira is a city of white-washed houses built on the edge of the 400 metres (1,312 feet) high caldera on the western edge of the semi-circular island of Thera. The two main museums of interest are the Archaeological Museum of Thera, 30 metres (98 feet) east of the cable car entrance, and the Museum of Prehistoric Thera at the southeast corner of the White Orthodox Cathedral of Ypapanti, built on the site of an earlier church destroyed in the 1956 earthquake.
From Fira there is a panoramic view of the 18 kilometres (11 miles) long caldera from southern Cape Akrotiri to northern Cape Ag. Nikolaos, plus the volcanic island Nea Kameni at the center with Thirassia Island. Large cruise ships anchor in the small harbor between Nea Kameni and Fira.
Most Recent
- From Cuisine to Caftans: Explore New Cultural Heritage Sites Around the World
- Ready for Paradise? Jamaica Welcomes Visitors Back
- Explore Regent’s New Epicurean Studios and Luxury Upgrades on Your Next Cruise
- Global Christmas Traditions You’ll Want to Experience
- Celebrating Special Occasions at Sea: Your Ultimate Guide to Planning