Syros is one of the most beautiful islands of the Aegean Sea, located in the middle of the Cyclades complex. During the antiquity, Syros enjoyed great glories and fame. From the Ottoman period until the 19th Century the importance of the island grew, first as a centre for the Latin Church (Syros, like Tinos and Naxos has a large Catholic population), and during the War for Greek Independence when refugees from other islands and Asia Minor escaped the destruction of their towns and came to Syros for a better life.
As the years passed, due to Syros’ geographical position, the island became the cultural and trading center of the Aegean Sea. Its rise lasted almost until the beginning of the second world war.
Syros’s wonderful capital, Hermoupolis, is at the same time the capital of the Cyclades and one of the most architecturally fascinating ports in the Mediterranean. Hermoupolis means 'City of Hermes' having been named by the name of the God of Commerce due to its extensive commercial activity.
Hermoupolis, trademarked by its Venetian architecture, reminds its visitors of a living museum, maintaining some of the most beautiful restored buildings in Greece. Syros is the home of the oldest high school in Greece, The Lykeion-a private school of art and culture, Syros is the home of one of the first post offices, Syros is the home of the first opera house in Greece.
While visiting Syros, we suggest you pay a visit to the impressive Town Hall, designed by Ernst Ziller, a well know Bavarian architecture of the 19th century. Syros Town Hall is considered one of the most beautiful buildings of Greece and will most certainly catch your attention with its particular architecture. Its characteristic is that it combines the vibe of the classical ancient Greece with the Romanticism of the West. Its general style belongs to the neoclassical style, evidently influenced by the German and Italian architects.
Syros’ capital Hermoupolis, is also considered one of the most cosmopolitan towns in the Greek Islands. Big yachts, VIP people, aristocratic families, all visit at least once every summer the island of Syros, seeking to enjoy its upper class ambience.
Syros beaches are wonderful as well. Crystalline blue waters, sandy beaches, easy access in most of them, complete the ideal scenery of the island. One can find isolated beaches for peace and relaxation, or experience trendy beaches with cafes, fish taverns and water sports.
Transportation to/from Syros is quite easy. Due to the fact that the island is on the same destination with Mykonos, there is a large number of ships that cruise daily, bringing or taking guests from one island to the other or back to the port of Pireaus / Athens.
