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| Map of Serifos |
Serifos is
the 13th bigger island
of Cyclades with 75km2
extension and 1.420 population. Capital of the island is Serifos(Hora), located
Southeast of Serifos. Other major settlements are Koutalas, Megalo Livadi
and Kentarho. Serifos has long
languished the mainstream of history and modern tourism. Little has happened
here since Perseus returned with Medusa's head in time to save his mother,
Danae, from bing ravished by the local king Polydectes, turning him, his court
and the green island into stone. Many would-be visitors are deterred by the
apparently barren, hilly interior, which, with the stark, rocky coastline,
makes Serifos appear uninhabited until the ferry turns into picturesque Livadi Bay.
This element of surprise continues as you slowly discover a number of lovely
beaches around the island.
Serifos
is also great for serious walkers, who can head for several small villages in
the under-explored interior, plus some isolated coves. Many people still keep
livestock and produce their own cognac-red wines, which are an acquired taste.
Capital
of Serifos, Hora, is quiet and atmospheric (only 2km from Livadi) and one of
the most unspoilt villages of Cyclades. The
best sights are in the precarious upper town: follow signs to the castle to
reach the top via steep and occasionally overgrown stairways. The central
square, Agios Athanasios, has an attractive church and a small but colorful
Neoclassical town hall.
