Churches in Syros
Syros is the center of the Cyclades and one of the islands of Greece where Christians and Catholics coexist harmoniously. The island boasts numerous churches from both religions, scattered in Ano Syros and the surrounding villages. One of the most interesting religious sites is the church of Metamorphosis, the first church of Ermoupolis, the island's capital. The entire complex is a sight itself, open to the public, with marble columns, beautiful icons, and impressive wood carving work.
Right at the main square of Ermoupolis stands the church of Koimisis tis Theotokou (Dormition of the Virgin), opposite the Town Hall, and is famous for housing one of the masterpieces of religious art made by the well-known painter El Greco. It is built between 1828 and 1829, the second oldest church of Syros. The Orthodox churches of Agios Dimitrios and Agios Nikolaos can be seen from the port and on top of Vrodado Hill lies the 19th-century Church of the Assumption. It offers a splendid view of the neighboring islands of Tinos and Mykonos.
The Catholic aspect of Syros is equally interesting with some beautiful religious sites standing in the heart of the city and the nearby villages. Among the most important is the Cathedral of Saint George in the Venetian town of Ano Syros. It was founded on top of a hill around 1200 AD and has been the Catholic Metropolis since 1952. This town is also home to the Jesuit Monastery, founded in 1744. It is known for its valuable library including thousands of books and ancient inscriptions and the church of Panagia Kamilos located within its premises. Close to the Catholic cathedral lies the historic Capuchin Monastery.
Catholic Cathedral of Saint George
The Catholic Cathedral of Saint George is a fascinating church in Ano Syros that features nice interior designs, an exhibition, a church organ, and a large bell tower. Its location allows gazing at the mesmerizing Ermoupolis from above.
Church of Agios Nikolaos
The church of Agios Nikolaos is located close to the port of Ermoupolis, in the quarter of Vaporia. This impressive church was built in the 19th century and has two tall bell towers and an eye-catching dome.
Church of Resurrection
The Church of Resurrection was built in 1870 on top of a hill above Ermoupolis. It offers a terrific view of the neighboring islands of Tinos and Mykonos.
Capuchin Monastery
Located near the magnificent cathedral of Saint George, the Jesuit Monastery of Agios Ioannis (Saint Jean) was founded in 1535 to help the poor. During pirate raids, inhabitants would hide themselves inside the monastery's crypts.
Church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary
The church of the Assumption of the Virgin Mary is among the most important churches of Ermoupolis. A holy icon of the Virgin Mary, made by the famous painter El Greco, is housed inside it.
Catholic Church of the Annunciation of the Lord
The Catholic Church of the Annunciation of the Lord is an impressive church in the town of Ermoupolis, featuring three arches, a gorgeous icon, and lots of space for its visitors.
Jesuit Monastery
The Monastery of the Jesuits is located in Ano Syros and works since the 18th century. Today it hosts a valuable library and its two nuns are followers of Saint Clara.
Monastery of Santa Barbara
The Monastery of Santa Barbara in rural Syros is a church building with beautiful wall paintings and a bell tower. A daily service takes place there.
Church of Agia Paraskevi
Agia Paraskevi Church in Syros is a beautiful structure with a dome, a large bell tower, white interiors, and fantastic surrounding views, ideal for a wedding ceremony.
Catholic Church of Saint Sebastian
The Catholic Church of Saint Sebastian in Ano Syros is a large structure with an exterior bell tower, a dome, a couple of chandeliers, and fascinating interior designs. It hosts yearly celebrations for two days in January.
Chapel of Agios Stefanos
The remote chapel of Agios Stefanos is a fantastic small structure between large rocks, with a bell tower, a spacious terrace, an iconostasis, and whitewashed walls. It offers mesmerizing views over the sea horizon.
Church of Agios Dimitrios
Agios Dimitrios is a wonderful church near Vaporia with a double bell tower, beautiful interior and exterior designs, and views of the endless blue sea.
Church of Agios Antonios
The Church of Agios Antonios is a cross-shaped church building with Cycladic-style colors, a large dome, and beautiful interior decorations. It hosts celebrations every year on January the 17th.
Chapel of Santa Paku
Santa Paku is a small, white Catholic church atop a hill on Galissas with a bell, a chandelier, and some icons, which offers spectacular views over the Aegean Sea.