On a mild summer day in July 1956, a devastating 7.8 magnitude earthquake struck Santorini, claiming 53 lives and destroying much of the then-quiet fishing village. Today, as the island has transformed into a major tourist destination, a series of tremors since June 2024 culminated in another earthquake exceeding 4.0 on the Richter scale, prompting many residents to evacuate. However, some locals, including Margarita Karamolegkou and Matthios Fitros, have chosen to stay, displaying resilience and a deep connection to their land, despite the fear and memory of past quakes.
Mayor Nicos Zorzos noted how the community has endured significant social changes due to tourism, which attracted over 3.4 million visitors last year. Local volunteers like Matthios are dedicated to supporting vulnerable residents and protecting the island from looters amidst uncertainty. While the national response to the crisis has been swift, many islanders feel a continued bitterness about lacking infrastructure improvements needed to handle the influx of tourists. They express concerns over the environmental damage caused by tourism and the potential risk to their economy from ongoing seismic activity.
As residents grapple with the situation, they strive to find understanding and pride in their unique island identity, shaped by its volcanic and seismic characteristics. The future of Santorini’s economy remains uncertain, but those who stay are determined to protect their home, believing that they will endure through the challenges posed by nature.
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