Sifnos Ancient Towers

Location: Platys Gialos

A series of ancient towers are situated throughout the island, all dating between the 6th and 3rd centuries BC. It is believed that the towers were built following the invasion of the Samians in 524 BC, which left the island ravaged and destroyed. Its inhabitants, seeking to better fortify the island and prepare it in case of future attacks, constructed a complex network of towers.

The towers were originally built near mines and later strategically placed across various locations on the island, mostly on top of hills and slopes. A system of communication was developed, whereby the islanders could be warned in time in case of a sea invasion, especially by pirates. If there was an attack, a large fire would be lit on the nearest tower's roof. The smoke would then be seen by the closest tower where the next fire would be lit. The next tower would follow and thus a chain reaction of sorts would be set up to protect the islanders.

While most of them were used as watchtowers, some were also used as protective buildings for women and children and were filled with agricultural equipment, storehouses, and reservoirs. About seventy-six of these ancient towers are located all over the island. All of them were tall, round, and with an average external diameter of around 8 meters. Inside, they had two floors with internal walls that separated them. Sadly, today most of them lie in ruins.

The most famous tower of Sifnos is located on the northeastern side of the island. This tower, called Aspros Pyrgos (White Tower) dates back to the Roman era and is one of the few that is still in good condition. Other remarkable towers include the Black Tower in Exambela and the Tower of Katavati, on the way to Vathi.

The towers’ communication system is revived every year on the eve of the Holy Spirit Feast. This tradition first started in 2003 and sees hundreds of volunteers simulate the lighting of the towers that are spread throughout the island with the use of artificial smoke. After the towers have been “lit”, the volunteers gather at the island’s center and a big celebration is held, featuring musical performances, local delicacies, and screenings of photos and videos from each tower.