Syros

This is the island where Greek tradition and western influence come to a harmonious marriage. Ermoúpoli is the island’s capital town and has been the first important trade and industrial centre of the country in the 19th century. The medieval quarter of the Roman Catholic community and the fortress-like St George’s cathedral are on St George hill, also named Áno Sýros. Go up the stairs to the top of the hill and through the narrow streets, by the traditional whitewashed houses, the archways and the open spaces with a breathtaking view of the island. There are many festivals on Syros offering a wide range of choices and covering any taste, e.g. The International Cyclades Music Festival, the Classical Music Festival, the Ermoupólia and the Musical May.