Aristocratic and seductive, Syros, the capital of the Cyclades, is the “princess” of the Aegean. Its architectural structures, churches, municipal buildings, aristocratic districts and mansions captivate those who visit the island and coexist harmoniously with the natural landscape of the Aegean. Being depicted in the whole island, its culture and civilization make it unique. So let’s answer the question “What to see in Syros?”
Miaouli Square
Miaouli Square is the largest and most historic square of Ermoupoli and one of the most important attractions of the island of Syros. It is located in the center of the city where the statue of the 1821 Greek Revolution admiral, Andreas Miaoulis, dominates, giving its name to the square. It is the “heart” of Ermoupolis, where the Town Hall and the Municipal Library are situated.
Town Hall
The Town Hall of Syros is an impressive building that looks more like a palace. It was built between 1875 and 1891 and is the work of the German architect Ernest Ziller. It is one of the largest town halls in Greece and extends over three floors. This emblematic building dominates Miaouli Square with its impressive staircase which wins visitors’ impressions. Its majestic staircase is 15.5 meters wide; in addition to the municipal services, the Town Hall houses the courts, the mortgage office, the Archaeological Museum and other public institutions.
Vaporia
Vaporia is the most beautiful district of the island and among the best places that answer the question “What to see in Syros?”. It is an aristocratic area on the eastern side of Hermoupolis, the history of which begins during the Greek War of Independence. Refugees from the northern Aegean and Crete settled on the island and created a unique district with majestic mansions, by the sea, with striking paintings, woodcut doors and marble balconies. Since the 19th century the district has been named after boats “Vaporia” and continues to be renowned as the most prestigious district in the eastern part of Syros, maintaining its style and picturesqueness.
Apollon Municipal Theater
The Apollon Municipal Theater, an symbol of Ermoupoli’s cultural development, is inextricably linked to its history. It was built in 1862-1864, based on the designs of the Italian municipal architect Pietro Sambo. Its architecture follows at least four Italian theater standards, such as that of “La Scala” in Milan (1776) and hosts various cultural events and festivals, like the “Aegean Festival”.
Old Port
The old port is on the left side of the bay, hosting the old Transit Storehouses, which were erected during the period 1834-1839, in order for the ships to approach and unload straightaway; however, today they house certain public services, such as the Cyclades Art Gallery, which was created in 1994. The building has a total length of 122 meters, with two wings in a symmetrical arrangement.
Ano Syros
The medieval town of Ano Syros is built on the hill of Agios Georgios, which is located above Ermoupoli. Ano Syros is a settlement consisting of narrow winding streets, stairs and small whitewashed and colourful houses very close to each other. Ano Syros was once the ultimate fortress town, protecting the island from raiders. The only street that is relatively wide is in the center of the settlement, the so-called “Piazza”, where all shops, bars and cafes of the area are located. At the highest point of the hill, where the Catholic Cathedral of Agios Georgios is situated, the view of the South Aegean is extraordinary.
Agios Nikolaos Church
The Church of Agios Nikolaos, the patron saint of the capital Ermoupolis, is a magnificent Byzantine Church that stands out for its lavish interiors and impressive architectural structure. The Church of Agios Nikolaos is located in the Vaporia district, within walking distance from Miaouli Square and the Apollo Theater. It is a two-storied monumental temple, with marble bell towers and an imposing marble staircase. An unforgettable experience is to hear the choir accompanied by the church organ.
Kini Village
Kini is a seaside picturesque village of Syros, located on the western side of the island, just 7 kilometers from the capital of Ermoupolis. The numerous accommodation options, its beautiful beaches, the cafes and restaurants make Kini a popular tourist destination in Syros. In September 2003, a monument dedicated to the people who perished at sea was erected there, named “Mermaid-Virgin Mary”; the monument is a life-size brass statue of a mermaid sitting on a reef holding the lifeless body of a fisherman in her arms and it is one of the most famous sights of Syros. The aquarium in Kini is also a popular attraction that you must visit if you want to get up close and personal with the marine world of the Aegean.
Posidonia
Formerly known as “Della Grazia”, named after the Catholic Church of Madonna de la Gratsia, the settlement eventually took the name of ancient Posidonia, dedicated to the god Poseidon. It is considered an aristocratic settlement of Syros, in the wide gulf of Phoenice (Foinikas), 10 km from Ermoupolis. In this settlement, the country mansions of neoclassical architecture, with towers and large gardens, with pines and palm trees, built at the end of the 19th century, are magnificent. The island’s aristocratic resort is a landmark even for locals, as only upper-class Syrians once lived there.
Galissas
Galissas is one of the most touristic seaside villages of Syros. It is located on the west side of the island, at a distance of 7 km from the capital. Galissas beach is a fully organized beach which offers all kinds of comforts. The area also offers accommodation and excellent food options. If you get there, don’t miss the cave of Agios Stefanos, with the white chapel, which is said to have been built by a fisherman who escaped from a huge octopus, as a tribute to the Saint.
