Before becoming an islet, Thirassia was part of the west coast of prehistoric Strogili which was destroyed after the great volcanic explosion of 1600 BC. According to mythology, the island was named after Thirassia, the youngest daughter of King Thira, who wanted to build a palace there.
Thirassia is a miniature of Santorini as the two islands share the same morphology and architectural style. Thirassia is less than a mile from the small port of Ammoudi at Oia and you can access it by a tourist boat.
The port of Thirassia is called Riva and from there you can see the Church of Santa Irene. According to a legend, the island (Santorini) takes its name from the Church (Santa Irene). One of the biggest festivals of the island takes place in the churchyard every May 5th.
