The Year 10 pupils enjoyed a school trip to the stunning island of Santorini from Thursday 25th –Sunday 28th May. Their first day on the island commenced with a memorable visit to the archaeological site of Akrotiri to see the ancient town that had been frozen in time by ash from the volcanic eruption 3,600 years ago. Pupils were amazed to see how advanced the ancient homes were with earthquake proof designs, fully equipped bathrooms, water storage and sewage systems etc. Afterwards, they toured the Koutsogiannopoulos Estate to see how wine has been grown by the family on the island since the 1600s. Pupils learned about the history of wine and the machinery used as well as seeing the stages of the winemaking process. They then enjoyed some relaxation with a swim and a delicious lunch in a taverna on Perissa beach, famous for its black sand. After lunch, the Year 10 pupils went to the Industrial Museum of Tomatoes in Vlychada to learn everything about the small, cherry-sized tomatoes of Santorini! They saw how these famous tomatoes of Santorini are cultivated, processed and produced. Each pupil had the opportunity to make a Nomikos tomato paste tin can, to take home as a souvenir, using the machinery from the heyday of the factory. Then it was time to visit Oia to enjoy a walk around this well-known town and take plenty of photos.
The following day involved a boat tour over to the volcano in the middle of the caldera and pupils climbed to the top of the crater. They saw all the interesting volcanic rock formations and even smelt the sulphur gases that were being released from the fumeroles near the peak. Some of the Year 10s then braved the cold waters of the caldera to swim to the hot springs. There they bathed in the warm waters and enjoyed making body masks using some of the rich, mineral muds. Afterwards, the teleferik ride took them up to Fira, Santorini’s capital, to enjoy some free-time walking around the cobbled streets and shopping for souvenirs whilst appreciating the panoramic views out to sea. From Fira there was a walk along the top of the caldera past picturesque villages to Imeroviglii. The views were awe-inspiring!
On the final day it was as if everyone had taken a step back in time in the traditional village of Emporeio. A wander around the quaint village allowed the pupils to catch a glimpse of the quieter side of life in Santorini. Before heading back to Athens everyone enjoyed a hearty meal in Fira.
All in all, the Year 10 pupils enjoyed an action-packed trip. They learned lots about the geography, history and culture of Santorini and much fun was had by all!
