On a peaceful summer day in July 1956 on Santorini, the island's tranquility was shattered.
Recalling the earthquake, 83-year-old Eirini Mindrinou speaks of how her dog and bird behaved strangely just before the ground trembled. "The house split open before closing again. Through the crack in the roof, I could see the sky," she reminisces, her voice a mix of steadiness and distance.
The 7.8-magnitude earthquake, striking between Santorini and Amorgos, left the island devastated, with a powerful aftershock compounding the destruction minutes later. Fifty-three lives were lost, and the once quiet fishing village was left scarred, prompting many to flee.
Despite the exodus, some residents remain, embodying a blend of bravery and attachment to their homeland. Enduring sleepless nights haunted by memories of the past, they face the uncertain future with courage.
Local businesswoman Margarita Karamolegkou describes the ongoing challenge of living amidst the earthquakes but expresses a deep-rooted commitment to her home and community, "I can't leave my home, and I can't leave the people who've stayed behind."
Residents like Matthaios Fytros exemplify this resilience, patrolling the island to prevent looting, support the vulnerable, and stand in solidarity with their neighbors. "We're proud of our island. I just hope everything works out and that this ordeal ends soon. We'll be happy to have our visitors back with us," he affirms.
While the state has responded swiftly to the crisis, some locals harbor a subdued discontent, recalling past pleas for better infrastructure and support that went unheeded.
The island's reliance on tourism as a vital economic pillar adds further complexity as concerns mount over the impact of the ongoing seismic activity.
Reflecting on the environmental toll and the uncertain future of the tourist season amidst the continuous tremors, residents like Margarita acknowledge the need for a balanced approach to preserving Santorini's unique character.
While uncertainty looms, some residents choose to interpret the seismic events with understanding rather than fear, hoping to find strength in embracing their island's volcanic origins and seismic nature.
Matthaios expresses unwavering pride in Santorini's resilience and beauty, remaining steadfast in the belief that the island will emerge stronger from these trials.