The volcano caldera in Santorini is a study in blue, and white, with the ominous black volcano cone squatting in the center of the lagoon. Since the beginning of the Christian Era, the volcano has had eight eruption episodes, in 46-47, 726, 1570-1573, 1707-1711, 1866-1870, 1925-1928, 1939-1941, and 1950. Though the average number of years between eruptions is 272, there is an alarming trend that points to an acceleration of eruptions. The interval between the first and second events was 679 years; between the second and third 847 years. But from the 16th century on the interval shrank, with 138, 159, 58, 13, and 9 years, respectively, between eruptions.
The volcano here is seen from the village of Oia, Santorini, on the northern tip of the famous Greek island. Although it is considered to be dormant at present, small tremors and gaseous emissions as recently as 2011-2012 prompted further examination. It was subsequently determined that molten rock equivalent to 20 years worth of normal activity had swelled the magma chamber under the volcano. That activity has since ceased, but as I gazed out over the volcano caldera in Santorini, it occurred to me that with a span of 68 years between today and the last eruption in 1950, the next event may already be overdue.
Author’s note: I was a guest of Collette during my visit to Santorini. However, the receipt and acceptance of complimentary items or services will never influence the content, topics, or posts in this blog. I write the truth, the whole truth, and nothing but the truth.
This looks absolutely stunning!
Hi, Barbara. The blue and white are an amazing and signature palette for this part for the world, but the realization had to have been disturbing or unsettling, that this beautiful scene and the spot on which you\’re standing hide the potential for a volcanic eruption.
Thanks for the write up. Dianne and I are visiting there in early Oct of this year…. hope it stays calm!