What is that sound which seems to emerge from the mountains? At first faint and gradually becoming louder? It is the unforgettable sound of the bells of a flock of sheep, or goats - almost music as each bell seems to have a different note, as they are driven down the mountain side to water at the well. At first one sees nothing, then, faintly discernable, appears the flock, making a pattern of lines as they follow the many tracks that lead to the water. High on the ridge, outlined against the evening sky, stands the shepherd, who controls his flock with shouts, whistles, and the throwing of stones. His wife is at the well drawing up water and it is soon surrounded by a seething mass of baa-ing and tinkling animals. Both sheep and goats are all different shapes, sizes, and colours. They push to the water troughs and having drunk, they disappear in to the pink oleander bushes that flourish in the watering places, but the animals know thay are poisonous so will not eat them. When all have been watered they are driven back up the mountain.
The island of Santorini is like no other island. It is well worth a visit despite some drawbacks. The main town of Hora, perched high on the cliffs, is fascinating architecturally, but unfortunately it absorbs a continuous flow of visitors on the tourist route; they are unloaded from the ferries and cruise ships below, put onto long suffering donkeys, and taken up to the town, with it's many souvenir shops and restaurants. This is a pity because it is such an attractive town. If you want a beach to sit on you will find only pebble ones with black sand, which are difficult of access, reminding you that this is a volcanic island.
Much the nicest place to stay is a village at the other end of the island called Ia. It is an incredible village, built into the steep cliffs that rise up from the very edge of the caldera; its shining white houses form amazing shapes, some even being built into caves and staying in one of these is certainly an experience. I shall never forget lying in bed and looking up at the curved ceiling above; and they are unexpectedly comfortable and cool. Outside there are wonderful views of the caldera with it's faintly alive volcano in the centre of this huge ring of water and where one can take a boat to view it at close quarters. I was particularly fascinated looking at the wonderful ochres and grays of the rocks on the cliff sides; these and the curious shapes of the houses with their peculiar chimneys inspired several sketches, as well as many photographs.