Santorini's Toolkit for Virtual Reality Exploration
This interactive application will guide you through captivating locations in the Santorini Volcanic Complex. Begin with the map tour to get an overview of all locations before diving into a detailed 3D exploration of a selected site.
The map tour is designed to provide an immersive experience through a combination of photos, videos, 360-degree videos, and interactive maps, offering insights into the unique features and geological significance of each site. You can scroll down to view all locations in sequence or if you want to explore the available material for a specific site, select its location on the map.
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1
Dyke swarm
Between 530 and 430 ka (and possibly more recently), lava emissions led to the formation of a small stratovolcano in northern Santorini. The remnants of this volcano, known as Peristeria, have been extensively cut by numerous dykes, which once supplied magma to surface eruptions. Many of these dykes exhibit columnar jointing perpendicular to their sides. They are predominantly aligned NNE-SSW, following the orientation of the regional rift zone that Santorini lies within. The dykes belong to two distinct ages: some fed Peristeria-age lavas, while others supplied magma to the Skaros lava flows (67–54 ka) that overlie Peristeria. Notably, this dyke swarm contains some of the most primitive basalts found on Santorini.
The 360-degree video reveals an underwater section of this dyke swarm, offering an immersive view of its geological features. The photo captures the onshore cliffs of the region.
2
Skaros
The Skaros lava shield formed between 67 and 54 ka, filling and eventually overflowing a pre-existing caldera. At its peak development, it reached 350 meters above present-day sea level. However, the shield was partially destroyed during the caldera collapse triggered by the 22 ka Cape Riva eruption. Composed of basaltic and andesitic lava flows, the shield contains interlayered orange tuffs and soils oxidized by heat. Its formation ultimately concluded with a major andesitic explosive eruption.
The image shows the onshore vertical cliffs of Skaros Shield, which are composed of multiple basaltic to andesitic lava flows.
3
Pagkos volcanic crater
The crater lies atop a submarine cone at 40m b.s.l. in between Nea Kameni and Fira port. It has a diameter of 10m and is covered by soft sediments. Its cone slopes are very abrupt and composed of dacitic lavas, while some parts of it are experiencing ongoing degassing.
The video captured with an ROV, shows soft sediments covering the volcanic cone.
4
May islands
The video captured with the ROV, reveals the offshore May islands which sunk during the 1866 eruption of Nea Kameni..
5
Modern shipwreck
It was a steamship that sank in 1926 due to a fire in the engine room. The ship lies between Nea and Palaia Kameni right next to the famous hot springs. Over the years, the ship’s hull has blended into the environment, creating a type of artificial reef, where various marine species of the area can be found.
With the 360-degree video, you can navigate alongside the diver as they explore the shipwreck, offering an immersive experience where viewers can look around freely and feel as if they are diving themselves. This allows for a realistic underwater adventure, showcasing the wreck from different angles and perspectives. By moving the screen with your mouse, you can follow the diver's path, observe marine life, and explore the details of the submerged vessel as if you were there in person.
6
Thirassia steps
Andesitic lava forming characteristics geometrical columns.
The multimedia content, including photo and video, offers an immersive and detailed view of the area.
7
Modern shipwreck Oia
The Oia Wreck is the remains of a cargo ship named AVLIS MV, which was 75 meters long, had a 1,157 GRT tonnage, and was built in 1949. The vessel was originally owned by Xanthopoulos & Co. until 1970 when Chalkis Cement Co purchased it.
On April 6, 1972, during a ballast voyage from Halkis to Santorini, AVLIS MV ran aground and wrecked off the coast of Santorini Island.
Today, the only visible part of the vessel is its stern, which lies at a depth of 3 to 20 meters, making it easily accessible for both snorkelers and divers.
The provided photos highlight various aspects of the shipwreck, showcasing its structure and details despite its prolonged submersion in water.
As you completed the map tour, you've gained a wide-angle perspective of the various locations and their unique stories. You can further explore one of these sites through a detailed 3D model. This model provides an interactive and in-depth exploration, allowing you to examine finer details and enhance your understanding of this particular location.
Thirassia steps 3D model. Press the play button to load the model. Use the mouse scroll wheel to adjust the zoom level and the left mouse button to rotate and tilt the view for a detailed exploration.
Virtual exploration allows us to uncover hidden details and experience landscapes from new perspectives. Continue your journey by exploring similar sites through additional virtual resources and interactive tools.