About Ano Syros, Greece:
Ano Syros (Greek: Άνω Σύρος, meaning “Upper Syros”) is a medieval hilltop town on the island of Syros in the Cyclades, a group of islands in the Aegean Sea, southeast of mainland Greece. They are famous for their whitewashed houses and chapels with blue-coloured domes. It lies on the eastern side of the island, perched above the port town of Ermoupoli, the capital of both Syros and the Cyclades. The name “Ano” literally means “upper” in Greek, referring to its elevated position.
The town is surrounded by narrow, winding streets, traditional whitewashed houses, and colorful doors, creating a labyrinthine, fortified medieval atmosphere. Venetians founded Ano Syros around the 13th century as a fortified citadel on a hill (San Giorgio) to protect residents from pirate raids. Its labyrinthine layout with narrow streets was designed to confuse invaders.
By the mid-19th century, Ermoupoli had become Greece’s principal commercial and maritime hub, surpassing even Athens and Piraeus in importance and Ano Syros lost its role as the island’s main administrative center, but preserved its medieval character and religious importance. It has been declared a protected historic settlement. it is car-free, with steep, winding streets, archways (stegadia), and traditional houses. The town has a relaxed, authentic feel with resident cats, occasional donkeys/mules for transport, and a mix of history and daily life.
Ano Syros is part of the municipal unit of Syros-Ermoupoli and covers about 25.8 square miles (67 km²), with a population of around 3,611 (2021 census). It shares the island with Ermoupoli and Poseidonia.
There are quaint tavernas, meze spots (Greek meze, or mezethes in plural, are small plates of food served to accompany drinks or as appetizers, emphasizing sharing and social interaction rather than forming a full meal. Traditionally, meze is enjoyed with alcoholic beverages like ouzo, tsipouro, or wine, though it can also be paired with non-alcoholic drinks). Local specialties include Cycladic dishes and sweets.
You can stay in traditional houses, guesthouses, or even a converted windmill for unique experiences with sea views. Late spring or early autumn offer milder weather and fewer crowds. Summers are lively but hot and busier. Many places are seasonal, so check opening times outside peak summer.
Catholic places of interest in Ano Syros, Greece:
Ano Syros has a strong Catholic heritage due to the long period of Frankish (Venetian) rule, and it remains the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syros and Milos. Catholics still form a significant part of the community.
There are several small Catholic churches here in Ano Syros and one cathedral.
Capuchin Monastery founded 1637, for much of its history, it was a center of religious and social life in Ano Syros. The monks also provided education, healthcare, and legal services to the community.
Cathedral of Saint George (Agios Georgios): The Catholic cathedral at the top of the hill offers breathtaking views. It dates back to the 13th century (rebuilt multiple times).
Traveling to Ano Syros, Greece:
By air: There is no international airport on Ano Syros. Syros Island National Airport (Greek: Κρατικός Αερολιμένας Σύρου) (IATA: JSY, ICAO: LGSO) serves Ano Syros, with flights from other cities in Greece.
By ship: A few cruise lines, such as MSC cruises and Azamara Cruises, offer Ermoupoli, Ano Syros as a port-of-call.
By ferry: The main means of travel to Ano Syros is usually by ferry from nearby islands or from the Greek mainland.
Walk uphill from Ermoupoli (steep but scenic, many steps), take a short taxi, bus, or drive (parking outside the walls).
Tips: Wear comfortable shoes for the steep cobbles (we always recommend comfortable shoes, no matter where you are going).