SYROS TRAVEL GUIDE

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AREAS

Ermoupoli

Magical Ermoupoli is the capital of Syros and the Prefecture of the Cyclades. It is located on the western side of the island and is known for its shipyard and important port. In the past it was an industrial, shipping and cultural centre of the country. Today Ermoupoli is an important tourist, commercial and administrative centre.

The amphitheatrically built town has neoclassical buildings and mansions that make it one of the prettiest towns in Greece. The large palm treed square, the imposing town hall, the intellectual centre, the museum and the municipal theatre are some of the sights in this enchanting town.

Ermoupoli continues receiving visitors even in the winter months through its many cultural, artistic and athletic associations creating interests for the residents as well as visitors to the island. Cultural events, training seminars, exhibitions of paintings, sculptures and photographs are some of the elements of the social life of Ermoupolis.

Ano Syros

Ano Syros, or Ano Syra as it is called by the locals, is built amphitheatrically and dominates above Ermoupoli. It is the unique region of island that maintains almost entirely its medieval aspect. Narrow, labyrinthine alleys, walls, arches above the street and the traditional white-painted houses transport visitors to past eras.

During the summer various exhibitions are organised of a folklore character. Every two years there is the Apanosyria festival that includes cultural events, theatre, concerts and lectures.

In the centre of the village is the Town Hall with the historical archives of Ano Syros and the Museum of Mark Vamvakari, marking the development of the rembetikis music tradition.

Vari

Vari is located in the south of Syros, 9 km from Ermoupoli, and is one of the largest villages on the island. It is a rural village that offers quiet, relaxing breaks. The lovely bay of Varis has shallow waters and a splendid sandy beach. There are hotels and rooms to rent in the region.

Poseidonia (Delagratsia)

Posidonias is one of the most beautiful coastal regions on Syros. It has been called after the god of the sea, Neptune, but it is also known as Ntelagkratsia from the Catholic Church of the Madonna della Grazia.

It is built on a fertile plain on the south-western coast of Syros and 15 km from Ermoupoli. The region was first inhabited in the 19th century and its mansions were the properties of very rich ship owners.

Many visit Posidonias because of its splendid natural beauty and sandy beaches, crystal clear waters, palm and pine trees. It is famed for its aristocratic neoclassical buildings and beautiful gardens.

Galissas

The pretty village of Galissas is located on the western side of Syros 8 km from Ermoupoli, a former rural village that in recent years has developed rapidly in tourism.

The splendid beach with fine sand and the natural shade from the almyrikia trees, the hill of Agios Pakou with its picturesque chapels, the harbour with the small boats, the stone jetty and the palm trees, are areas where visitors can enjoy a romantic walk amid the beauties of nature, while a magical sunset unfolds. In Agios Pakou traces of the oldest citadel have been discovered that was one of the important classical centres of ancient Syros.

The organised hotels, rooms and apartments, camping area, tavernas and bars, promise unforgettable moments for its visitors.