Imerovigli the Proud
Views, Views & More Views!
Imerovigli falls into the category of “Beautiful Greek Island Village”. The second highest village on the island, save Pyrgos, it is also happens to be home to our hotel, Tholos Resort. Steeped in history, with sweeping views of Santorini’s Caldera and devastatingly beautiful sunsets, Imerovigli is truly impressive.
Imerovigli Today
Imerovigli, summer or winter, is breathtaking and is fondly known as “The Balcony of Santorini”. Situated north of Fira, the capital of Santorini, it rests at the highest point of the Caldera (500 metres above sea level). Famous for the spectacular view of the Volcano and the island, and having Skaros Rock as its’ star attraction, Imerovigli is so quiet you can hear a pin drop. If you want to relax, soak up the Greek sun, and generally mellow – this village is the place to be. Traditional Greek taverns, restaurants with International cuisine, picturesque cafes, churches – absolutely picture perfect.
Add this to Your Bucket List
Hiking along the Calderimi (caldera path) of Santorini is a favourite pastime for locals and visitors. The path starts in Fira and ends up in Oia – this means that it runs all the way along Imerovigli – you could start there if you staying with us. Even if you only go part of the way, or the whole way, you could make a day of it. Imagine having breakfast in Fira, coffee in Firostefani, lunch in Imerovigli and dinner in Oia. And get a taxi back – you’ll deserve it!
Skaros Rock
Centuries ago, when Santorini was under Venetian rule (as were all the Cyclades islands), Imerovigli served as a lookout point for marauding pirates. It was one of the 5 fortified “Kastellia” of Santorini and the most important one. At that time it was referred to simply as ‘Kastro’. The name Imerovigli comes from 2 words, Vigla (Latin for vigilare – to guard or to act as a look out) and Imera (Greek for day). Skaros was the capital of Santorini until the 18th century, but due to repeated earthquakes, the inhabitants were forced to move to safer ground. The evacuation of Skaros started at the beginning of the 17th century. The next capital of Santorini was Pyrgos.Nowadays little remains of the intricate and architecturally astounding Venetian Castle. There is a winding stepped path down the Caldera leading to the original site, on which you can find the small white Chapel of Panagia Theoskepasti.
