Imerovigli: The Balcony to the Aegean

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fiye!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε γιατρό!
  [Kaleste giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eimai arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Boreite na miosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οχτώ
  [Ohto]
• 9Εννέα
  [Ennea]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Poia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Boreite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για ....);
  [Ena isitirio (ya ....)?]

Imerovigli's history is deeply entwined with the ancient city of Thera, which was established on the island's highest point during the 9th century BC. This settlement thrived until the 8th century AD, serving as a significant trade center. The ruins of Ancient Thera, located nearby, include remnants of Hellenistic and Roman structures, showcasing the area's historical importance.

During the 13th century, Santorini came under Venetian rule, leading to significant architectural developments in Imerovigli. The village served as a strategic lookout point against pirate attacks, leading to the construction of defensive structures, including the iconic Skaros Rock, which housed a fortress. This period marked the blending of local and Venetian architectural styles.

The devastating earthquake that struck Santorini in 1956 had a profound impact on Imerovigli, resulting in extensive destruction of buildings and infrastructure. This tragedy prompted a wave of reconstruction, with many traditional cave houses being restored or rebuilt, leading to the preservation of the village's unique architectural heritage.

In the late 20th century, Imerovigli began to transform into a popular tourist destination. The village's stunning views of the caldera and its serene atmosphere attracted visitors seeking a more laid-back alternative to the bustling towns of Fira and Oia. This resurgence in tourism has led to a revival of local traditions, with an emphasis on gastronomy, arts, and crafts that reflect Santorini's rich cultural heritage.

Today, Imerovigli is known for its luxurious accommodations and boutique hotels that blend seamlessly with the traditional Cycladic architecture. The neighborhood maintains its cultural significance through local festivals, art exhibitions, and culinary experiences that celebrate Santorini's unique heritage, showcasing local wines and dishes that have been passed down through generations.

Imerovigli is easily accessible from other parts of Santorini. If you are arriving from Fira, the main town, you can take a local bus which runs frequently, taking approximately 10-15 minutes. Taxis are also available and can be hired from Fira or other nearby locations. For those staying in Oia, expect a 15-20 minute taxi ride or a scenic hike along the caldera path, which is a popular route for its stunning views.

Imerovigli is compact and best explored on foot. The main pathways are well-paved, making it easy to stroll through the neighbourhood. Local buses connect Imerovigli to Fira and Oia. Taxis can be arranged for longer trips or if you prefer not to walk. Bicycles can be rented in Fira for a more active exploration of the area.

Imerovigli is considered one of the safest areas in Santorini. Petty crime such as pickpocketing can occur in tourist-heavy areas, so it’s important to keep an eye on your belongings. Avoid walking alone in poorly lit areas at night. While there are no specific high-crime zones in Imerovigli, standard safety precautions should always be observed.

In case of emergency, dial 112 for police, fire, or medical assistance. There are a few medical facilities in Fira, approximately a 10-minute drive away. It is advisable to have travel insurance that covers emergencies. Local pharmacies can provide basic medical supplies and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking on uneven surfaces. Avoid overly casual or beachwear when dining in restaurants. Religion: Do respect local customs, especially in churches. Dress modestly and cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be patient and respectful to fellow passengers. Don't engage in loud conversations. Greetings: Do greet locals with a smile and a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good Morning). Eating & Drinking: Do try the local cuisine at tavernas. Don’t eat in public places if it is against local etiquette.

To experience Imerovigli like a local, start your day with a coffee at a local café and enjoy the sunrise over the caldera. Visit the lesser-known trails for hiking, which offer breathtaking views without the crowds. Engage with local artisans and shop for handmade goods. Don’t miss the sunset from Skaros Rock for a spectacular view, and consider dining at a family-run taverna for an authentic meal.