Map of Syros |
Syros is a
living, working island with only a fleeting history of tourism, rendering it
the most Greek of the Cyclades. It's the 11th
bigger island of Cyclades with 84km2 extension
and 21.500 population. It is located in the central part of the Cyclades and is 83 nautical miles from Pireas and 62 from
Rafina. There's a thriving, permanent community, the beaches are busy but not
overflowing and the villages don't sprawl widely with new developments. As well
as being home to a number of excellent restaurants, the island is known for its
numerous shops selling loukoumia (Turkish
delight), mandolata (nougat) and halvadopita(soft nougat between
disc-shaped wafers). In addition Syros still
honors its contribution to the development of rembetika songs.
The island's
sights -including the best beaches- are concentrated in the South and West. The
North part is unpopulated and barren offering little interest. Most people tent
to stay to Ermoupolis, the capital,
which offers better connections to a cariety of beaches none further than 15km
away.
Possessing
an elegant collection of grand townhouses that rise majestically from the
bustling, cafe-lined waterfront, Ermoupolis is once of the most striking towns
in Cyclades, and it certainly worth at least a
night's stay.
Medieval Syros was largely a catholic island, but the influx of
refugees from Psara and Hios during 19th century created two distinct
communities. The Orthodox, which accounts the 2/3 of the population, in the
Lower Ermoupolis and the Catholics in the Upper Town.
Beaches
Agkathopes
One of the
top beaches in Syros and main attraction for tourists who prefer it for its
crystal clear waters, the golden sand and the lilies that exists there.
Although it's a cosmopolitan beach the shallow waters make Agkathopes ideal for
families with children. Just across from the beach there are two islands that
are not inhabited, Stogylo and Shoinonisi. Awarded with Blue Flag. Located in
the South Syros.
Galissa
Galissa is
maybe the bigger beach of the island with golden sand, blue waters and trees
that can offer shade and protection from the sun. It's one of the most popular
beaches because of its beauty and the comfort that offer, like water sports,
taverns, restaurants, hotels and studios to stay. Located to the West Syros.
Delfini
Another
beach with crystal clear waters, fine golden sand and a natural landscape which
makes this beach first choice for visitors. It's located to the West Syros, 11
km from Ermoupolis.
Kini
A beach
with crystal waters and a landscape with unique beauty. It's very popular for
tourists and locals, families and couples. The main feature of the beach is the
magical view of the sunset. Located to the Western side near Delfini.
Vari
This
small beach
located in
a secluded
bay is calm and ideal for children due to its shallow waters. It is ideal for walking and there are various water sports. Taverns, restaurants,
accommodation and bar are dozens of satisfying even the most demanding.
Located to the South.
Other Beaches
Lotos,
Azolimnos, Komito,Kokkina, Asteria, Taliro, Kymata.
Asteria Beach |
Sights
Archaeological
Museum
The
Archaeological Museum of Syros is one of the oldest museums in Greece.
Established in 1834 and housed in the Town Hall of Syros
which designed by the famous architect Chiller.
Apolo
Theater
Apolo Theater |
The
Apollo Theater is an emblem of the economic and cultural development of Ermoupolis, in the mid 19th century. Is one of the oldest closed theaters in modern times and one of the most impressive architectural gem of Syros. Located behind the Miaouli square.
Cultural
Center
The
Cultural Center of Syros was designed by Italian architect Pietro Sampo (1862 - 63). It houses also the Museum of Cycladic Art.
The
Municipal Library
The
Municipal Library on the ground floor of the Cultural Center counts 35,000 titles old and rare books.
Other Sights
Industrial Museum,
The Labor Center, Ferekydi
Cave, Church of St Nikolaos.
Syros |
Transportation
By plane: The island is served by Athens(via Olympic, 45min)
By ferry: All ferries dock at Ermoupolis.
Destinations: Amorgos(3-4 weekly, 5-6 hr), Anafi(3 weekly,
9 hr), Andros(2-3 weekly, 2hr 30min), Astypalea(1 weekly, 6hr 30min),
Folegandros(5 weekly, 5hr 30min), Ikaria(6-7 weekly, 3hr), Ios(3-5 weekly,
4hr), Koufonisia(3 weekly, 3-7hr), Lavrio via Kea/Kythnos(2-4 weekly, 4hr),
Milos/Kimolos(3-5 weekly, 5-7hr), Mykonos(2-5 daily, 1hr), Naxos(2-5 weekly,
2hr), Paros(2-5 weekly, 1hr 10min-1hr 30min), Patmos(1 weekly, 3hr), Pireas(2-3
daily, 3-4hr), Samos(6 weekly, 4hr 30min), Santorini(3-5 weekly, 5-7 hr),
Serifos(3 weekly, 2-5 hr), Sifnos(3 weekly, 2hr 30min-6hr), Sikinos(3-5 weekly,
5hr), Tinos(2-6 daily, 30-50min).
Getting Around
By bus: Buses run on the main beach loop road South(to
Galissas, Finikas, Megas Gyalos, Akhadi, Vari and Azolimno) hourly in high
season, until late.
Useful Phone Numbers
Hospital:
22810 96500 - 22810 86666 - 22810 96523
Police:
22810 96100 - 22810 96112 - 22810 96127
Fire
Station: 22810 87383
Port
Authorities: 22810 88888 - 22810 82690
Taxi: 22810
86222
KTEL: 22810
82575
Airport:
22810 81900 - 22810 87025
Post
Office: 22810 82590 - 22810 82596
Syros by night |
Photos:
plus.google.comngm.nationalgeographic.com
tsoumpasphotogallery.ning.com
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