Tourists are evacuating Santorini as a series of earthquakes shake the famed Greek island, prompting many to seek safety away from the tremors. While visitors are leaving in droves, local residents are choosing to stay, displaying a blend of resilience and deep-rooted connection to their home.
The recent seismic activity follows a history of earthquakes that have marred the island, most notably the devastating 7.8-magnitude quake in July 1956 that claimed 53 lives and destroyed much of the area. Since then, Santorini has evolved from a quiet fishing village into a bustling tourist destination, attracting millions each year. However, the tranquility of this summer has been shattered by new tremors that began in June 2024, escalating into stronger quakes that have rattled homes and unsettled the community.
As families hurriedly departed by air and sea, those who remained expressed a mix of courage and necessity. Margarita Karamolegkou, a local businesswoman, described the overwhelming noise of the earthquakes, stating, "I’ve felt tired, day after day, with no end in sight… But I haven’t felt fear. I can’t leave my home, and I can’t leave the people who’ve stayed behind." This sentiment echoes a broader theme among locals who are determined to support one another during these trying times.
Matthaios Fytros, a local volunteer, emphasized the community’s commitment to helping vulnerable residents, including the elderly and those with disabilities. He patrols the island, ensuring that abandoned properties are secure and that those in need receive assistance. "I’m not afraid," he affirmed. "We’re proud of our island. I just hope everything works out and that this ordeal ends soon."
Despite the challenges posed by the earthquakes, the response from the Greek government has been swift, with measures implemented to address the crisis. However, some residents harbor resentment over the years of neglect regarding infrastructure improvements, particularly concerning the island’s port, which has struggled to accommodate the rising number of tourists. Karamolegkou voiced her frustration, saying, "We need help preserving the island’s identity – its unique environment, the seismic and volcanic forces that shape it."
Tourism plays a crucial role in Santorini’s economy, contributing approximately 2.5% to Greece’s GDP, or around 5.9 billion euros annually. As the ground continues to shake, the future of this economic lifeline hangs in the balance. Residents worry that ongoing seismic activity could jeopardize the upcoming tourist season, which is vital for their livelihoods.
Eirini Mindrinou, an 83-year-old local who experienced the 1956 earthquake, reflected on the island’s development over the years. She expressed concern about the environmental impact of tourism and the potential loss of the island’s charm. "We’ve damaged the natural environment here. Now, with the earthquakes continuing, there’s a real risk we could lose the entire tourist season," she said.
While scientists remain uncertain about when the tremors will cease, some residents are choosing to approach the situation with understanding, seeing it as a natural part of the island’s identity. Karamolegkou remarked, "It feels like something is settling down there. Everything we admire about Santorini today – the beauty, the character – has been shaped by the volcano and its seismic forces."
As Santorini faces this latest crisis, the spirit of its people shines through. Matthaios encapsulated this sentiment, stating, "We are the most beloved island… and I believe we’re the most beautiful of all the islands in Greece. We will get out of this stronger." The resilience of the locals reflects their commitment to preserving their home, even as they navigate the uncertainties ahead.