Oia typifies classic Greek island architecture with whitewashed walls and blue domed churches. Cycladic and cave houses are carved into the rock face of the cliff. Most houses are painted white with blue trim, and only this combination or pastels are allowed. This is tightly controlled on all of Santorini. The blue and white are the colors of the Greek flag, and the white is quite practical to keep buildings cool in the intensity of the summer sun. The houses are painted in white lime water so that the rainwater that runs over it can be collected and used.
We stayed for the sunset and managed to snag a table in a small cafe facing west about a hour before. Some of our group came in after us and we sat together waiting for the sunset. There was a group of 20 something's filling the tables outside in this small cafe and they were there for the same reason. We grabbed a small table inside by the only window and had a great view plus a pleasant breeze. We ordered some crepes done Greek style and it was served with a delicious plate of sliced olives. That was so good we ordered a second crepe filled with chocolate. The food was great and then we enjoyed one of the best sunsets we have ever seen.
There is much more to know about Oia. See http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Oia,_Greece for more information. Following are a few of our favorite photos taken in Oia. The full set will be uploaded to the photo library later. This a photo set to be sure and see.
Fira on the cliffs in the far distance.
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