About the Cathedral of Saint George in Ano Syros:
The Cathedral of Saint George (also known as Agios Georgios or San Tzortzis) is the Roman Catholic cathedral in Ano Syros, crowning the medieval hilltop settlement on Syros island, Greece. It serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syros and Milos and is one of the most iconic landmarks on the island, blending history, architecture, and breathtaking views.
The site has a long religious history. The first church was built around the early 13th century (c. 1200 AD) during Venetian rule. It was rebuilt multiple times, including after destruction by Turks in 1617 AD. The current structure dates primarily to the 1830s (with some sources noting completion or major reshaping around 1834 AD or later in the 19th century). It is the fifth church on this site.
The Cathedral of Saint George in Ano Syros reflects Syros’s unique Catholic heritage, which coexists with the dominant Greek Orthodox tradition on the island. The exterior is relatively simple and whitewashed in classic Cycladic style, with a bell tower. Inside, it features a pastel-hued, neoclassical-inspired design with marble columns plus a striking vibrant blue arched barrel-vaulted ceiling dotted with gold stars in addition to colorful walls, detailed wood carvings and religious icons and artwork.
The Cathedral of Saint George in Ano Syros also contains a portrait of Bishop Ioannis Andreas Kargas, who was hanged by the Turks on October 2, 1617 during the invasion of the Ottoman Turks under the leadership of the Kapudan Pasha Çelebi Ali. The name Bishop Ioannis Andreas Kargas has been given to the street that leads to the stairs of Ano Syros. In 1652, the church became the cathedral of the Diocese of Syros and Milos. Rebuilt in 1834, the cathedral has a modern look. In the church there are the icon of Saint George and the icon of the Mother of God, Panagias tis Elpidas, of artistic and cultural value.
Traveling to the Cathedral of Saint George in Ano Syros:
The Cathedral of Saint George is, as mentioned, high up on the island of Syros. It is reachable via winding marble steps or paths through Ano Syros’s medieval streets (car access is limited near the top). It’s a pleasant (but uphill) walk from Ermoupoli.The cathedral’s hilltop position offers some of the best views on Syros, overlooking Ermoupoli (the main town below), the Aegean Sea, the port, and distant islands like Tinos, Mykonos, Delos, Andros, Paros, and Naxos. Sunsets or clear days are especially rewarding.
This cathedral is a highlight for anyone visiting Syros, symbolizing the island’s layered history and offering a tranquil contrast to busier spots. It’s especially magical at dusk or when the light hits the surrounding whitewashed buildings.
Visit the official website for the Diocese of Syros, Greece.