Saint Irene the Great Martyr is being celebrated for the first time on Tuesday as the patron saint of Santorini.
The decision followed a request by the Metropolis of Thera, Amorgos and Nisioi and was approved by the Municipal Council of Thera. Presidential Decree no. 81/2025 establishes 5 May as an official local holiday in honour of Saint Irene.
On this day, as part of the official observance, schools, public services, and banks on the island will be closed, along with most shops and pharmacies.
The date also marks the beginning of the island’s summer tourist season, which runs until October.
Programme of the Celebration
The inaugural official celebration includes the Divine Liturgy, celebrated by Metropolitan Amphilochios of Thera, Amorgos and Nisioi.
Later the same day, a festive anniversary programme will take place in the courtyard of the Metropolis, attended by representatives of the Church, local authorities and the faithful of the island.
As part of the events, busts of Loula and Evangelos Nomikos will be unveiled, in recognition of their contribution to the construction of Santorini’s cable car approximately 45 years ago.
Historical Roots of the Name
The connection between the island and the saint has deep historical roots. According to tradition, the name “Santorini” derives from the Latin form Santa Irene, used by Latin Christians in the Middle Ages in honour of the saint, a designation that gradually evolved into its present form.
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