The Christiana-Santorini-Kolumbo volcanic field in the southern Aegean Sea is one of the most hazardous volcanic regions in the world. Forming the northeastern part of this volcanic field, the Kolumbo Volcanic Chain (KVC) comprises more than 20 submarine volcanic cones. However, due to their inaccessibility, little is known about the spatio-temporal evolution and tectonic control of these submarine volcanoes and their link to the volcanic plumbing system of Santorini. In this study, we use multichannel reflection seismic imaging to study the internal architecture of the KVC and its link to Santorini. We show that the KVC evolved during two episodes, which initiated at ~1 Ma with the formation of mainly effusive volcanic edifices along a NE-SW trending zone. The cones of the second episode were formed mainly by submarine explosive eruptions between 0.7 and 0.3 Ma and partly developed on top of volcanic edifices from the first episode. We identify two prominent normal faults that underlie and continue the two main trends of the KVC, indicating a direct link between tectonics and volcanism. In addition, we reveal several buried volcanic centers and a distinct volcanic ridge connecting the KVC with Santorini, suggesting a connection between the two volcanic centers in the past. This connection was interrupted by a major tectonic event and, as a result, the two volcanic systems now have separate, largely independent plumbing systems despite their proximity.