A view of Santorini’s iconic cliffs and architecture, as seen from the sea, with the Greek flag symbolising hope amidst ongoing seismic activityCredit : Shutterstock, Adam McCullough
Santorini, that picture-perfect Greek island we all dream of visiting, is having a bit of a nightmare at the moment.
A swarm of earthquakes has been rumbling beneath the island since the start of February, and it’s understandably got everyone a bit rattled. So much so, that the locals have taken to the streets to pray for some peace and quiet.
Santorini locals unite in faith amid earthquakes
On Monday morning, you could see a moving sight in Santorini. Locals gathered together, carrying banners, Greek flags, and even some religious relics – the remains of Saint Haralambos, the icon of Panagia Prousiotissa, and the skull of Saint Prosdokimos, no less. They walked in procession through the streets of Emporeio village, praying for divine protection and hoping that their prayers would calm the restless earth.
Santorini on shaky ground: Island residents on edge
Santorini and the surrounding islands have been experiencing a worrying increase in earthquake activity. Over 800 tremors, measuring 3 or more on the Richter scale, have been recorded since the beginning of February. And with a 5.0 magnitude quake hitting the area just on Sunday night, it’s no wonder people are feeling a bit jumpy. Many of the island’s 16,000 residents, as well as plenty of tourists, have decided to play it safe and leave Santorini until things calm down. The usually bustling streets are much quieter these days, and there’s a definite sense of unease in the air. Everyone’s hoping that the earthquakes will stop soon, and that life on this beautiful island can return to normal.
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