The architecture of Ia is typical Santorini with houses sunk deep into the volcanic soil, their whitewashed walls and blue domes sparkling in the sunlight. Ia in 1900 had close to 9,000 inhabitants with virtually all of them mariners and who today many live in Piraeus. They owned 164 seafaring vessels and seven shipyards. In the area there were 79 churches. After the devastating 1956 earthquake and the passing of 80 years, 1980 presented us with the following: just 500 permanent residents, 75% who are mariners and who have 112 seafaring vessels. In 1951 Captain Antonis Dakoronia established a Maritime Museum. Although it was destroyed in 1956 earthquake, it was reopened in 1979 and is functioning today. Ia today also hosts a cultural centre, a central art gallery and many other Greek art galleries. Many shops sell handicrafts, souvenir, jewellery and other items to help you remember your visit. If it's peace and quiet you seek, Ia is the ideal spot to enjoy a peaceful vacation surrounded by unique natural beauty. But that's not to say that the town is dull.