Sifnos Church of Agios Symeon

Location: Agios Symeon

The locals often claim that no experience of Sifnos is complete without a visit to the Church of Agios Symeon, and there is little exaggeration in that. Built at an altitude of 500 meters above sea level, on one of the highest points on the island after the peak of Prophitis Ilias, this quaint chapel affords some of the most spectacular views you will ever get to see, especially at sunset, when the flaming sun literally dives into the azure sea! From there, your eyes can feast on the panoramic vistas of Kamares and all the major settlements of Sifnos, as well as all the nearby Cycladic islands! This is why you will even find a clay map of the Cyclades at the church courtyard, placed there by Sifnian potters to help visitors identify the islands they can see.

The chapel itself is an elegant whitewashed structure with a lovely blue dome, characteristic of Cycladic architecture. To get there, you will need to drive up a steep winding road starting from Kamares for around 7 kilometers. Though the path looks somewhat scary, it is actually quite safe; you will just need to be a bit careful, as it can get quite narrow in places. If you’re into hiking, you can also follow the trail leading to the chapel from Artemonas. Whichever way you choose, the views from the top will definitely be more than rewarding!

Bonus info: If you happen to be in Sifnos around the last days of August, make sure to visit the chapel on the 31st, as Agios Symeon is the patron of Kamares and a traditional panigiri is held there in honor of the saint on his feast day.