SYROS

General Information

Syros is distinguished for its elegance among the rest islands of the Cycladic cluster. In addition to comely beaches with crystal clear waters, this particular island commands respect, and simply due to the fact that it is the capital of the Cyclades islands. This emanates from its traditional buildings, its old mansions, its paved paths, its monuments, and its picturesque villages, all of which compose a picture characteristically distinct in the Cyclades. Ermoupolis, the capital city of the island and of all the Cyclades, was once the most important harbor in Greece, until Piraeus developed into one of the greatest harbors in the world. A fine road network facilitates journeying across the island, while a romantic atmosphere is felt all over, inspiring artistic creation. Its population reaches a number of about 20000 residents, while its extent covers an area of 85 sq.km. 

History - Culture

The island of Syros was one of the centers of the famous Cycladic civilization of the Neolithic Age. Ionians from Athens settled here in the archaic period. In the 6th century BC the philosopher Pherecydes, who is believed to have been dividing his time between two caves in the areas of Platy Vouni and Alithini, distinguished himself through his teachings. In the Persian Wars, Syros sided with Persians but, later on, it became part of the Athenian Alliance. Long centuries later, when Franks got hold of Syros at the expense of the Byzantines, the island was annexed to the Duchy of Naxos, and it fell into decline. In 1494 Venetians conquered Syros, and the medieval city was built. Soon enough, the island came under Turkish domination during the period of which Syros was lucky enough to enjoy privileged treatment by virtue of French protection, a fact that somehow eased the burden of the foreign occupation. After the war of Russia with Turkey (1770 ? 1774), Syros came under Russian protection. In the Greek War of Independence of 1821, a stream of refugees from revolted areas such as Chios, Crete, Psara, Macedonia and Thrace flowed into the island, the only neutral zone within Greek territory at these troubled times. They promoted the further thriving development of Syros in trade and culture and thus they created a new town, the island"s capital, which in 1828 was named Ermoupolis. This city has been the leading urban center of the Cyclades ever since, and one of the few islands that developed heavy industrial activity.  

Sights

It is only natural that Syros attracts the attention of tourists and travellers, as it is gifted with beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters, a wonderful countryside and numerous archaeological and historical monuments. The capital of Ermoupolis establishes its leading role at first sight. It emanates an aura of magnificence, perhaps with the assistance of the image provided by its many mansions and wonderful buildings, such as the "APOLLO" theatre (1861), reminiscent of the "Scala di Milano", and the Town Hall. The central square, with its palm-trees, stores and the statue of Admiral Miaoulis -a leading figure of the Greek War of Independence- adds to this effect. The island is abound in significant Catholic and Orthodox churches and monasteries as well as in beautiful villages such Manna, Vari, Talanta and Domokos. The seaside area known as Poseidonia or Della Grazia is one of the most beautiful sites of the island and a celebrated resort as well. As one gets close to Ano (Upper) Syros, a small graceful town with a certain medieval atmosphere, he can see the two caves that were once the residence for the ancient philosopher Pherecydes. About 6km to the north lies Chalandriani, a site of major archaeological interest, as excavations here have revealed a Neolithic necropolis and findings dating from the first period of the Cycladic Civilization, dating as far back as 6000 BC. From here, a short distance on a narrow path leads to the remnants of the ancient acropolis, once an impressive fortification. Lovely neo-classical buildings framed by picturesque gardens are spread all across the island, conveying a sweet feeling of nostalgia and setting a pace reminiscent of the 19th century. Amazing landscapes of green, orchards and waters dominate the scenery, but pleasant surprises await those adventurous enough to roam inland.

Entertainment-Sports-Shopping

As perhaps expected, the capital, being the commercial and administrative centre of the Cyclades, provides visitors with services and facilities in readiness to meet the needs of even the most demanding visitors. The road network and public bus transportation service is fine, while the airport provides quick access to the island. Hotel units, rooms-to-let and guesthouses are of top quality, while the markets in Ermoupolis, Ano Syros, Galissa, Vari, Poseidonia and Mega Galios offer just about everything, rendering shopping a pleasurable experience. A large variety and quantity of entertainment facilities are offered in many areas across the island, providing visitors with the means to have a great time. There are restaurants, taverns, coffee shops, bars, pubs, clubs and discos. Sporting facilities enable activities such as football, basketball, volleyball, tennis, track, golf, and water sports, while there is also a yachting club. Syros is renowned for its loukoumia, a distinct sweet that melts sweetly into the mouth. Other specialties and traditional products include halvah pies, gruyere as well as hand-woven and embroidered articles, hand-made shoes and works of folk art. Local wine and sun-dried fish are seductive delicacies, the latter of which is best accompanied by ouzo.

Access

Flights are carried out from Athens all year round while there are regular ferry services from the ports of Piraeus, Rafina and Thessaloniki. Flying dolphins depart from Rafina, with services being more frequent in the summer.

Connections

Throughout the year, ferries link Syros with the rest of the Cyclades, the Dodecanese, the Northern Aegean islands, Thessaloniki, Herakleion (Crete), Psara, Volos, Rafina and Piraeus. There is flying dolphin connection with many of the islands mentioned above.

Museums

The Archaeological Museum in Ermoupolis is housed within the impressive building of the Town Hall, and hosts a collection which includes findings originating from many Cycladic islands. The Markos Vamvakaris Museum -a noted composer, lyrics writer and singer of traditional Greek rebetiko music and songs - can be visited in Ano Syros.  

Alternative Tourism

Agrotourism, cultural, congressional, archaeology, gastronomy, sporting (trekking, water sports, windsurfing, sailing).

Useful Telephone Numbers:

ERMOUPOLIS AREA CODE:  22810-

POLICE STATION  : 22810-96100, 96112

AIRPORT: 22810-22255

PORT POLICE: 22810-88888, 82690

MUNICIPALITY: 22810-98200

TELECOMMUNICATIONS ORG.: 22810-95502

POST OFFICE: 22810-82596, 82590

HOSPITAL: 22810-86666, 96500, 96523, 22813-60500

SOCIAL INSURANCE ORG.: 22810-82340, 82440

PHARMACIES: 22810-87823, 88288, 82300, 88288

TAXI STATION: 22810-86222, 84222

BUS STATION: 22810-82575

NATIONAL TOURISM ORG.: 22810-82375