Its geological particularities, its past, and its imposing scenery single out Santorini (Thira) in the Aegean next to the rest of the Cyclades. Bright white domed houses clinging to the cliff sides of the caldera formed by the volcano's explosion in 1500 B.C. have an incredible view of Kamenes, (burnt ones) the coal coloured islets in the middle. Some of the most spectacular beaches can be found on Santorini: some with dark pebbles and others with black sand. A whole civilization is coming to light at the archaeological sites at Akrotiri, the prehistoric city, and Messa Vouno, where the ruins of Ancient Thira lie.