Where does the name "Santorini" come from?

From Strogili to Santorini: A Journey Through Its Many Names

Santorini, with its breathtaking caldera and iconic scenery, has been known by various names throughout its history.

Satellite image of the crescent-shaped island of Santorini

Each name represents a unique period and the events that shaped the island’s character. From its dramatic volcanic beginnings to its deep cultural roots, these names tell a story of beauty, strength, and transformation. This article explores the meaning behind each name, uncovering the rich history that makes Santorini a true treasure of the Aegean Sea.

Strogili

Simulation of Santorini: Before and During the Volcanic Eruption. (credit: www.earthmagazine.org)

One of the earliest names in the island's history, meaning "the circular one", reflects its shape before the catastrophic volcanic eruption around 1600 BCE. Known as the Minoan eruption, this cataclysmic event reshaped the island, creating the iconic caldera seen today. As one of the largest eruptions in recorded history, it not only destroyed the island’s central landmass but also triggered tsunamis and ash fallout, likely contributing to the decline of the Minoan civilization on Crete. Though no longer in common use, the name Strogili symbolizes Santorini's volcanic origins and its dramatic transformation by natural forces.

Kallisti

An autumn sunset over Santorini’s caldera!

Meaning "the most beautiful", this name was also one of the earliest attributed to Santorini, reflecting the island's striking natural beauty even in ancient times. Ancient texts suggest that this name preceded others like Strogili and Thera, signifying its appeal to early settlers and sailors. The name Kallisti reflects the wonder the island evoked with its vibrant vegetation, rich volcanic soil, and untouched beauty before the catastrophic eruption. Although this name is no longer used, it still serves as a poetic reminder of the island's enduring charm and its cultural importance in ancient Greece.

Dermetzik

The classic white windmills symbolizing the island's rich heritage.

During the Ottoman period, Santorini was also known by the name Dermetzik, which means "small mill" in Turkish. This name likely referred to the presence of small mills or grinding stones on the island, which were essential for processing agricultural products such as wheat or olives. The name reflects the island's daily life and its agricultural and industrial activities during Ottoman rule. Used alongside the Venetian-derived name Santorini, Dermetzik highlights the island's linguistic and cultural diversity during this period. Though no longer in use today, it serves as a reminder of the island's Ottoman heritage and its place within the empire's agricultural and economic framework.

Thera

Ancient Thera, set atop the island, offers a fascinating look into Santorini's history along with stunning views of the Aegean Sea

The name Thera is perhaps the most historically significant and enduring name for the island, dating back to ancient times. It is believed to have been named after Theras, a legendary Spartan leader who is said to have founded the island's first settlement. Thera was used throughout classical antiquity and remained the island’s primary name during the Greek and Roman periods. The name is closely linked to the island's rich history, including its role as a powerful trading hub and its connections to ancient Greek culture and mythology. Even after the volcanic eruption, Thera remained in use, especially in official contexts. Today, the municipality of Santorini is officially known as Thera, preserving its ancient heritage. The name Thera serves as evidence of the island’s deep historical roots and its central role in the ancient world.

Santorini

Step into serenity at the Church of Agia Eirini (credit: santairini.gr)

The name Santorini is the modern and most internationally recognized name for the island. It was given during the Medieval period by the Venetians, who named the island after Santa Irini (Saint Irene), likely referring to a church dedicated to the saint on the island. The Venetians ruled the island from the 13th to the 16th centuries, and this name gradually replaced earlier ones, such as Thera and Strogili, in European and foreign records. The name Santorini persisted after the island came under Ottoman control, though it was adapted into forms like "Santoron" or "Santurin" in Turkish. Despite the island's long and diverse history with multiple names, Santorini became synonymous with the island's iconic image of whitewashed buildings, blue domes, and the breathtaking caldera formed by the ancient volcanic eruption. Today, Santorini is not just the name of the island but also the symbol of Greek beauty, history, and culture, recognized worldwide.

Each name offers a glimpse into the island's storied history, and together, they contribute to the enduring allure of this volcanic paradise.