Syros
You will need more than a summer season to visit Syros.
It welcomes travellers all year round at its cinematic setting.
It got its name from the Phoenician “Ouss” which means “happy”!!
The majority of its hotels are old mansions and neoclassic buildings that were built in the 19th century on the slope of Vaporia ,the aristocratic district of the island.
In Syros the taste is not hidden….
Between uphill alleys and mansions of the last century you feel that passing the doors of the high-ceilinged mansions, a world of high aesthetics unfolds with impressive murals, romantic colors, antique furniture, precious fabrics, wood-carved doors and an authentic sense of the glamour of Ermoupolis town overlooking to the port from its marble balconies.
The traveller “must” walk to Ano Syros,
only 3.5 kilometers on foot from the port, on a route worth walking.
It was founded in 1200 by the Venetians
and continued to be inhabited throughout its history, maintaining its universal
identity and medieval character.
The countless steps that pass through
the white houses and the arches, lead to the top of the settlement, where the
Catholic Diocese of San George is located.
A quick lunch, is a “must”, in one of
the taverns of Saint Antonios Square where you can enjoy traditional Cycladic
flavors and ouzo under the sun overlooking Chora.
Do not miss to visit the Museum of
Markos Vamvakaris, the famous Greek beloved traditional musician where you will
see his own photos, personal belongings, the manuscripts and the lyrics.
Continuing, you will find yourself in
the central Miaouli Square which architecturally composes a fairytale setting
of the 19th century.
Opposite the Town Hall you will see a
marble neoclassic building where it is necessary to stop for Greek coffee with
cardamon or wines of the Greek vineyards at the Greek Café.
I am sure that you will return again to
enjoy a rich breakfast with hearty sandwiches and interesting suggestions for
snacks.
A breath away from the square is the
emblematic Apollo Theater of 1864, which today hosts a variety of cultural
events and festivals.
Don’t miss one light dinner at Mammo’s,
one of the best wine & food bar in the Cyclades. Best seller, the mussels
with white wine and rosemary and aromatic risotto with fennel.
During your stay in Syros, do not miss a
visit to the villages of Chroussa with the picturesque chapels & majestic
mansions, paths and alleys that through a magnificent pine forest you will
stare on a golden sand beach, where Galissas village is located.
On the way back to your hotel, stop at
“Glyotechnio” Café where you can enjoy your afternoon coffee.
Do not forget to try the almond local
pastries, dipped in sugar !!
Syros stands there, in the Aegean Sea, like the old ladies who sit imposing and serene, waiting or even demanding from others to appreciate their high position.