Sifnos

The Island of Gastronomy

Atmospheric Sceneries, Gastronomic Delicacies and Authentic Festivities under the Apollonian Light
Dressed in white with the cool breeze of the Cyclades, Sifnos knows how to bring you here every time you sail for the Aegean. Sifnos definetely stands out, as it is regarded as the most authentic island of the Cyclades. The lover of the Cyclades will find everything in Sifnos. Mountainous villages with the typical architecture of the Cyclades surrounded from sceneries of the dry barren nature, endless sandy beaches and isolated bays along with history that counts more than five thousands years that is reflected in both the architecture and monuments of Sifnos. If you look close enough, you will might even discover the mysterious charm of Sifnos! Sifnos is an explosion of the five senses. You first smell the aroma of lavender, oregano and thyme from the ship, the fragrant aniseed buns in the alleys of Artemonas and the royal jasmine and the night flowers from the courtyards of the houses. Then, you eavesdrop her from the sounds of the bells and the violins in the churches, the concerts of the frogs in the stream of Artemonas and the breeze that whistles from the highest peaks of Prophet Elias. You also taste her from the delights of true ode of taste and worryingly addictive, as it is characterized one of the classiest cuisines of the Cyclades starred from Nikolas Tselementes. True eye catcher, the spotless white villages of Sifnos are spotted with the Apollonian light and the endless blue of the Aegean. And the touch of it… this is the most outstanding feeling of Sifnos! Will you let yourself discover this feeling in one of the most authentic islands of Greece?
 
 
 
 

Discover Sifnos

Best of Sifnos

The Capital of Sifnos

The Settlement of Apollonia is the capital of Sifnos located in the heart of the island. Dedicated to the worship of God Apollo, the beautiful settlement is built amphitheatrically around three hills with the typical architecture of the Cyclades. A promenade around the labyrinthine alleys of Apollonia reveals the numerous churches of the area including Agios Spyridonas, Agios Ioannis and Panagia Ouranofora. For the ones interested in the history of the island, they can visit the Folklore Museum of Sifnos at the Square of Heroes.

The Church of Seven Martyrs

The Church of Epta Martyres (Seven Martyrs) is the most photographed church of Sifnos found in the beautiful village of Kastro. The charming church lies on top of a rocky islet that emerges from the sea offering panoramic views to the endless blue of the Aegean.

The Monastery of Chrissopigi

The Monastery of Chrissopigi is the religious center of Sifnos and the patron saint of the island located on top of a rock upon the sea, separated from the rest of the island with a narrow stretch of sea, close to the bay of Platis Gialos. The monastery was established in the 16th century on top of an older church. According to tradition, nuns were living in the monastery during the medieval times. Following a pirate invasion, the nuns ran to hide but one nun did not manage to be saved. She prayed on Virgin Mary to save her, and this was the time that the rock was cut into two parts and the pirates fell in the sea. The name Chrissopigi was given from the Cretan monk Parthenios, who named it after the monastery of Chrissopigi in Chania, Crete.

The Village of Kastro

The Village of Kastro is one of the most beautiful villages of Sifnos located on the east side of the island. The village was named from the castle (Kastro in Greek) that is formed from the construction of the buildings. Kastro has a defensive and fortified architecture while the houses are built adjoining each other thus forming two defensive circles, the internal one being composed of rich houses for their best protection and the external one of poor houses. On the top of the hill, one can see the remnants of the ancient citadel of Kastro surrounded from a wall made of Sifnian marble. The Archaeological Museum of Sifnos operates at the center of the settlement. Must visit monument is the charming church of Seven Martyrs with an open view of the sea. Lovers of walking can follow the ancient path that leads of the church of Panagia Poulati in order to admire landscapes of extreme natural beauty.

Sailing in the Western Cyclades

If you have decided to explore the Cyclades by boat, it is worth adding Sifnos to your plan. The close proximity of the surrounding islands including Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos and Serifos make Sifnos an ideal spot for starting your journey. The main port of the island is Kamares that can serve as an anchorage location. There are places inside the pier, or you will moor off shore. The bay of Vathy on the southwest side of Sifnos is the safest harbor of the island that suffers only from southwestern winds. Also, Heronisos on the northwest side of the island is a narrow bay offering protection from the northern winds. However, keep in mind that the space is limited. Other anchorage spots include the bay of Faros on the southeast side of the island, the beach of Fasolou that mainly suffers from northern and northeastern weather conditions and the small bay of Kastro. You can also moor offshore in the bay Platis Gialos that suffers from south, southeastern and northeastern winds along with the area of Chrissopigi that offers protection from northern winds. Keep in mind that the sea passage between Sifnos and Serifos can be very dangerous depending on the weather conditions!

The Ceramic Pottery Workshops of Sifnos

Sifnos is the bulwark of development of pottery in the Cyclades! The first samples of pottery are dated back to the Proto Cycladic period. The abundance of raw materials of the island has helped in the development of pottery. The pottery workshops, known as tsikaladika, were first installed in the hinterland in the villages of Artemonas and Ano Petali in order to be protected from the invasions of the pirates. Visitors can find traces of old potteries at the villages of Kamares, Faros, Platis Gialos and Vathi. The inhabitants of Sifnos spread the art of pottery all over Greece. Today, there are more than twelve pottery workshops on the island that contribute to the preservation of the tradition of their ancestors. Discover the pottery workshops of Sifnos through the Official Website of Sifnos.

Archaeological Sites

The Acropolis of Agios Andreas is the first organized archaeological site of Sifnos that extends over an area of ten thousand square meters on the plateau of the hill of Agios Andreas. Archaeological excavations brought to light parts of the Mycenaean wall of the citadel along with the urban tissue of the buildings, the streets and the rainwater management system. Important findings are exhibited in the exhibition hall of Agios Andreas.

The Acropolis of Agios Nikitas is one of the four ancient acropolis of the island. Following the path upwards towards the road of Herronisos, you will reach the top of the hill of Agios Nikitas next to the homonymous church. There, you will see parts of the wall of the ancient citadel along with the remnants of the ancient tower.

The Acropolis of Kastro is the old capital of the island that has been populated uninterruptedly from the prehistoric times until today. The village was named from the castle (Kastro in Greek) that is formed from the construction of the buildings. Kastro has a defensive and fortified architecture while the houses are built adjoining each other thus forming two defensive circles, the internal one being composed of rich houses for their best protection and the external one of poor houses. On the top of the hill, one can see the remnants of the ancient citadel of Kastro and traces of the wall that was made from Sifnian marble.

The Acropolis of Prophet Elias is one of the four ancient acropolis of the island. Following the path upwards towards the road of Herronisos, you will find a rising path leading to the top of the hill of Prophet Elias after thirty five minutes of walking. There, you will see parts of the wall of the ancient citadel.

The Ancient Mines of Sifnos are located in the areas of Agios Sostis, Aspros Pyrgos, Kapsalos, Agios Ioannis of Faros and Xeroxylos. The subsoil of the island played a critical role in the development of the island since the prehistoric times, as the exploitation of the mineral deposits gave an impulse to the cultural development of Sifnos. At the peninsula of Agios Sostis, it has been proved that the mining activity for the production of zinc started from the beginning of the 3rd millennium BC. This is considered to be the most ancient silver mine in the world.

The Ancient Towers of Sifnos testify the prosperity of the island that took place around the 6th century BC by the exploitation of the mines. The towers were defense and fortification constructions that were used as observation points enabling mirror and smoke signals communication around the island during pirate invasions. Today, seventy six ancient towers have been registered from the archaeological service. Of these, the most important include the Aspropyrgos in Pantokratoras, the Mavros Pyrgos in Exambela and the Tower in Kade.

The Sanctuary of the Nymphs is located at the region of Korakies in the village of Kamares. The cave with the inscription ‘ΝΥΜΦΕΩΝ ΙΕΡΩΝ’ (‘Sanctuary of the Nymphs’) indicates the identity of the monument. Further excavations in the area gave information of the worship manners during ancient times.

The Tomb of Soroudi is located in the region of Pantokratoras. It is a big construction, possibly a Mycenaean arched grave, which was built on a flat surface surrounded from a cyclopean terraced earthwork around its base. The tomb offers panoramic views to the bay of Platis Gialos.

Churches and Monasteries

The Church of Epta Martyres (Seven Martyrs) is the most photographed church of Sifnos found in the beautiful village of Kastro. The charming church lies on top of a rocky islet that emerges from the sea offering panoramic views to the endless blue of the Aegean.

The Monastery of Chrissopigi is the religious center of Sifnos and the patron saint of the island located on top of a rock upon the sea, separated from the rest of the island with a narrow stretch of sea, close to the bay of Platis Gialos. The monastery was established in the 16th century on top of an older church. According to tradition, nuns were living in the monastery during the medieval times. Following a pirate invasion, the nuns ran to hide but one nun did not manage to be saved. She prayed on Virgin Mary to save her, and this was the time that the rock was cut into two parts and the pirates fell in the sea. The name Chrissopigi was given from the Cretan monk Parthenios, who named it after the monastery of Chrissopigi in Chania, Crete.

The Monastery of Prophet Elias Apsilou stands on the highest mountain of Sifnos. The entire complex includes the main church of the monastery surrounded from walls, underground galleries, basement rooms and monk cells that accommodate the visitors. On July 19, one of the biggest traditional and religious celebrations of Sifnos takes place in the monastery. Here, one can admire one of the most beautiful views of the island.

The Monastery of Panagia Vryssiani is located just outside the village of Exambela. The monastery is dedicated to the Birth of Virgin Mary with the traditional architecture of the Cyclades. It was always a male monastery, the only operating on Sifnos today. Inside the monastery, one can visit the the museum of ecclesiastical art that exhibits icons, sacred vessels, religious documents, vestments of priests and the embroidered coat of Kassiani.

The Monastery of Panagia Vounou is located three kilometers away from the area of Platis Gialos. The monastery was constructed in the 19th century with donations of Sifnians living in Constantinople. The monastery offers panoramic views of the bay of Platis Gialos and the islands of Kimolos and Polyaigos.

Monuments

The Pigeon Houses of Sifnos are characteristic buildings on the island. The structure of the pigeon houses is peculiar and their basic use is pigeon breeding. Today, there are sixty five pigeon houses on the island. The majority of them have been abandoned, some are still being used for pigeon breeding whilst other have been transformed into rental accommodation.

The Windmills of Sifnos are scattered throughout the island. There are about sixty windmills left on the island in the areas of Artemonas, Exambela and Kastro. Some of the windmills are in good condition, others are deserted while others have been converted into rental accommodation.

Museums

The Archaeological Museum of Sifnos is located in the village of Kastro. The museum displays findings from the Archaic, Classical, Hellenistic and Roman times of the island. Exhibits include sculptures, statues, architectural parts and marble items.

The Ecclesiastical Museum of Sifnos is housed in the monastery of Panagia Vryssiani just outside the village of Exambela. Exhibits include icons, sacred vessels, religious documents, vestments of priests and the embroidered coat of Kassiani.

The Folklore Museum of Sifnos is located on the central square of Apollonia village. The museum displays items from the traditional life of the island including agricultural tools, domestic articles, local costumes, woodcarving and embroideries, gardening tools and records of Sifnian newspapers.

Promenades & Villages

Apollonia is the capital of Sifnos located in the heart of the island. Dedicated to the worship of God Apollo, the beautiful settlement is built amphitheatrically around three hills with the typical architecture of the Cyclades. A promenade around the labyrinthine alleys of Apollonia reveals the numerous churches of the area including Agios Spyridonas, Agios Ioannis and Panagia Ouranofora. For the ones interested in the history of the island, they can visit the Folklore Museum of Sifnos at the Square of Heroes.

Artemonas is a mountainous village located on the east side of the island. Dedicated to the worship of Goddess Artemis, the beautiful settlement has an authentic atmosphere embellished with some of the most elegant traditional old mansions of Sifnos. A promenade around the settlement reveals the unique neoclassical and Venetian architecture of the area. Artemonas is an ideal place for those looking for relaxation and tranquility. If you go up to the windmills, you will get the chance to enjoy panoramic views of Sifnos. At the beginning of September, the Festival of the Cycladic Cuisine Nikolaos Tselementes takes place in Artemonas.

Exambela is a mountainous village located on the east side of the island. At the entrance of the village are the Arades namely the rows of windmills. It is a quiet settlement reputed for its agricultural activity. Nikolaos Tselementes (1878 – 1958), the well renowned chef and confectioner was born in Exambela. Just outside Exambela, one can visit the exceptional monastery of Panagia Vryssiani that houses the Ecclesiastical Museum.

Faros is a fishing village located on the east side of the island. The settlement was named after the lighthouse that stands at the right side of the harbor. The quiet atmosphere of Faros is ideal for those looking for relaxation and tranquility.  Worth visiting is the monastery of Stavros to admire the panoramic views. One can also visit the beautiful beaches of Fasolou, Glyfos and Chrissopigi. During the summer, numerous cultural events are held in the small theatre of the settlement.

Heronisos is a quaint fishing village located on the north side of the island. Although only one pottery workshop is maintained, the settlement is renowned for its craftsmanship in pottery. Heronisos lies in the heart of a sheltered bay with its scenic beauty, the fishing boats and the fish taverns by the sea. It is an ideal place for those looking for seclusion and isolation.

Kamares is the harbor of Sifnos located on the west side of the island. The central settlement lies on the right side of the bay of Kamares. On the opposite side, you will find the area of Agia Marina, else known as Pera Panta from the locals, situated on the hill slope. The beach of Kamares has been awarded with a Blue Flag, attracting many travellers on an annual basis.  Lovers of hiking can follow the path that passes from the Sanctuary of the Nymphs, the Black Cave, the Old Mines and the Church of Panagia Toso Nero.

Kastro is one of the most beautiful villages of Sifnos located on the east side of the island. The village was named from the castle (Kastro in Greek) that is formed from the construction of the buildings. Kastro has a defensive and fortified architecture while the houses are built adjoining each other thus forming two defensive circles, the internal one being composed of rich houses for their best protection and the external one of poor houses. On the top of the hill, one can see the remnants of the ancient citadel of Kastro surrounded from a wall made of Sifnian marble. The Archaeological Museum of Sifnos operates at the center of the settlement. Must visit monument is the charming church of Seven Martyrs with an open view of the sea. Lovers of walking can follow the ancient path that leads of the church of Panagia Poulati in order to admire landscapes of extreme natural beauty.

Platis Gialos is a seaside village located on the southwest side of the island. The long beach of Platis Gialos is one of the most popular beaches of Sifnos. Platis Gialos is also a settlement of potters that still maintains some workshops, where you can watch the production process of pottery. Worth visiting sights include the Monastery of Panagia Vounou for the panoramic views to the bay of Platis Gialos, the Aspropyrgos, one of the best preserved towers of Sifnos, and the uninhabited isle of Kitriani with the church of Panagia Kitriani.

Vathy is a seaside village located on the southwest side of the island. The beautiful settlement has a serene atmosphere and it is considered to be one of the most attractive destinations of the island. The whitewashed monastery of Taxiarhes stands right next to the harbor while the chapel of Agios Andreas offers panoramic views from the homonymous hill. If you wish to stay away from the crowds, then Vathy is an ideal choice for you.

Sunset Spots

Spot: Beach of Vathy, West Sifnos

Spot: Church of Agios Symeon, Kamares Village

Spot: Church of Seven Martyrs, Kastro Village

Spot: Settlement of Troulaki, North Sifnos

Excursions

Boat trip: The Island of Folegandros has built its own myth as the island of the measure with residents keeping the authenticity of this mysterious island alive. While approaching the harbour of Folegandros, you will be fascinated from the barren beauty of the towering cliffs that resemble just a rocky mountain. The beautiful villages and the pristine beaches will definitely captivate the eyes of the travellers. Its just this wild beauty of the barren and rugged sceneries of Folegandros. As for Hora, it is one of the most beautiful villages of the Aegean, a true sample of the traditional architecture of the Cyclades. Scattered whitewashed houses with colourful windows, purple bougainvillea hanging amongst the successive charming squares and labyrinthine alleys perching on the edge of the vertical cliff. Undoubtedly it is one of the most beautiful and oldest medieval villages of the Cyclades. Folegandros creates a bohemian atmosphere with the romanticism of Hora and its medieval colours, the charming scattered chapels and the magnificent sunset colours under the scents of the shrubs of thyme and oregano that decorate the dry slopes of the arid landscape. The puzzle of the island is completed with the breezy landscape of Karavostasis dominated from the reddish rocks, and the traditional cottages and stone windmills of Ano Meria. The tremendous beauty of Folegandros will make you forget everything.

Boat Trip: The Island of Kimolos boasts a unique charm with incredible architectural wealth, rare geological monuments and mysterious beaches retaining its frugal and austere beauty. As expensive perfumes come in small bottles, so little Kimolos is shining intrinsically due to its hospitable people, its rare beauty and authentic tastes, transforming the island into an island of simplicity and elegance. Once called the land of Silver for its unique shine and later known as Echinousa for its hidden secrets of the earth and sea, Kimolos is a white touch in the Aegean. Cobblestone alleys designed with butterflies and hearts of limestone, whitewashed houses with blue windows, white chapels with blue domes compose the tranquil atmosphere of Kimolos. Kimolos is an island with underwater ancient cities, natural sculptures, violet sunsets, abandoned isles, epic scenery and natural springs. It is an island rich in minerals, lunar rock formations, thermal springs, beaches with exotic finesse, unspoilt landscapes and a rich flora and fauna that act as a shelter for the Mediterranean monk seal and rare bird species. Actually, Kimolos possesses a unique variety of minerals and a remarkable variety of soil layers of chalk color. In a strange way, the main village of Kimolos, Horio, boasts one of the finest defensive architectures of the Aegean and one of the most traditional settlements of the Cyclades. Indeed, the inhabitants of the island retain the traditional character of Kimolos by respecting their architectural heritage. The fishermen of Kimolos have given to the island one of the most colorful images of joyful touch to the barren land of the Cyclades; the cave structures of Syrmata carved into the rocks; the place where fishermen drag their boats in order to protect them from the gusty winds. Explore the underwater cities, the natural sculptures and the beautiful sceneries of Kimolos and sing with the locals their favorite song …My Kimolos, My Paradise…

Boat Trip: The Island of Kythnos is a beautiful island with a calm atmosphere and barren landscapes of wild beauty.  The island has managed to retain the traditional character of the region welcoming you to explore the Cycladic sceneries and its unique hospitality. Marble fountains with flowing waters, the open air museum on the beach of Apokrousi with scattered column capitals in the sand, the Byzantine fragments at the pathway leading to the Castle of Oria, the beautiful river with oleanders of Episkopi and the purple colour of the mountains from thyme, sage, fireflies and lizards will make you remember sound of steps within the hidden abundance of the inland of this island forever.

Boat Trip: The Island of Milos is one of the jewels of the country that was created from the lava of a volcano millions of years ago. Although the volcano was extinguished, the soul of Milos continues to be alive. Heavenly turquoise beaches and spectacular volcanic rocks blemished from the mysterious colours of the sunset compose a distinctive landscape that cannot be found elsewhere in the Cyclades. An island that kept for so many years in its inner world the goddess of love can only be magical. Love creates fever and high fever inflames the bowels of the island rising in a thousand appearances trying to captivate your eyes from the impressive charismas and allures of her. Nature endowed the island with all the charms of her, and maybe Aphrodite was the one who bequeathed generously these divine beauties; splendors with an exclusive identity of lunar landscapes and heavenly seashores embellished from mysterious caves, steep cliffs and natural pools, once haunt of the pirates. And lets not forget that this is the island of Aphrodite; a divine paradise from endless beauties that endeavors to steal your heart!

Boat Trip: The Island of Serifos has managed to maintain the original charm of it and the relaxing rhytms of life exuding the atmoshpere of another, bygone era. The whitewashed houses of Serifos reflect on the merciless sunrays of the Aegean. Characterized as one of the most beautiful medieval villages in the Cyclades, Hora will charm you from your first steps on the cobblestone alleys and the vaulted arches filled with fuschia bouggainvillea and whitewashed walls reaching the top of the hill with the remnants of the castle.  Abandoned mountain villages with astonishing views are connected with the majestic beaches through lovely trails creating mesmerizing sceneries of the hinterland of Serifos. Apart from the captivating energy of hers, Serifos is blessed with beaches of wild beauty, charming villages of great beauty and plentiful mining remnants of one of the most impressive monuments of industrial archaeology in Greece. Sleepless nights on the golden sandy beaches under the natural shade of the trees will make you appeciate the simple moments in life. Serifos will not try to conquest your soul. Just like this, she will leave you discover all of her secrets on your time.

Activities

Hiking and Walking: Sifnos hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking walking. The trails create an excellent network of routes extending over two hundred kilometers. These routes serve the cattle breeders and the farmers. One will have the opportunity to admire manmade works including monasteries, wells, fountains, old mines, threshing floors and stonewalls. The main settlements of the island namely Apollonia, Agios Loukas, Ano and Kato Petali, Katavati and Exambela are connected through magnificent routes. (1) One of the most beautiful routes is the old sign posted trail that begins from the area of Firogia in Katavati leading to the monastery of Prophet Elias Apsilos. The route is constantly uphill with a lot of stairs that leads to the monastery of Firogia. Upon arriving in the monastery, you will be impressed from the beautiful sceneries and views of the surrounding areas. (2) Another interesting trail includes the one that starts from the area of Kade on the road to Vathy leading to the acropolis of Agios Andreas. There, you will admire the biggest archaeological site of Sifnos along with panoramic views over the villages of the island. Discover more information from the Official Website of Sifnos.

Sailing and Yachting: If you have decided to explore the Cyclades by boat, it is worth adding Sifnos to your plan. The close proximity of the surrounding islands including Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos and Serifos make Sifnos an ideal spot for starting your journey. The main port of the island is Kamares that can serve as an anchorage location. There are places inside the pier, or you will moor off shore. The bay of Vathy on the southwest side of Sifnos is the safest harbor of the island that suffers only from southwestern winds. Also, Heronisos on the northwest side of the island is a narrow bay offering protection from the northern winds. However, keep in mind that the space is limited. Other anchorage spots include the bay of Faros on the southeast side of the island, the beach of Fasolou that mainly suffers from northern and northeastern weather conditions and the small bay of Kastro. You can also moor offshore in Platis Gialos that suffers from south, southeastern and northeastern winds along with the area of Chrissopigi that offers protection from northern winds.

Spearfishing: Sifnos is an ideal destination for lovers of spearfishing. The caves, holes and plates at the area of Heronisos along with the area of Poulati and the isle of Kitriani in Platis Gialos are ideal places for spearfishing.

Beaches

Apokofto is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the southeast side of the island. It is a beautiful beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and seclusion. Two taverns operate on the beach.

Chrissopigi is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the southeast side of the island. The rocks of Chrissopigi are the favorite place of many swimmers during the summer. On the east of the monastery of Chrissopigi, one will find the idyllic beach of Apokofto that combines relaxation and tranquility under the shade of tamarisk trees. On the west side of the monastery of Chrissopigi, one will find the small isolated pebbled beach of Saoures.

Faros is a sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the southeast side of the island. It is a beautiful beach ideal for those looking for tranquility and seclusion. Alongside Faros, one can discover the charming coves of Glyfos and Fasolou with peaceful emerald waters.

Fasolou is a long sandy beach with blue waters located on the east side of the island. The beach is rather secluded ideal for those looking for relaxation. The monastery of Stavros Farou is also located behind the beach.

Glyfos is a small sandy beach with blue waters located on the east side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Sifnos due to its isolated location. Glyfos is ideal for lovers of nature and tranquility. Numerous tamarisk trees offer natural shade.

Heronisos is the beach of the homonymous fishing village located on the northernmost side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful spots of Sifnos renowned for its unspoilt natural beauty. The crystal bay is ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation. Numerous fish taverns operate alongside the bay.

Kamares is a long sandy beach with blue waters located on the west side of the island. It is one of the longest beaches of Sifnos. Due to its close proximity of the main harbor of the island, it is rather crowded during the summer. Kamares offer numerous amentieis including sunbeds, umbrellas and beach bars.

Platis Gialos is a long sandy beach with emerald waters located on the north side of the island. It is one of the most popular beaches of Sifnos with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, water sport facilities and beach bars. On the top of the hill, one will find the church of Panagia Vounou offering panoramic views to the endless blue of the Aegean.

Vathy is a sandy bay with emerald waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Sifnos with numerous tamarisk trees that provide shade. Along the beach, one will find numerous facilities including sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars and taverns.

Vroulidia is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful beaches of Sifnos with impressive sceneries of natural beauties. One will find numerous amenities on the beach including sunbeds, umbrellas and taverns.

Coffee Corners, Gastronomic Delights and Cocktails Inspirations

Coffee Corners

Bola Cafe: Coffee, Vathy

Dolci Cafe: Coffee, Kastro

Gerontopoulos: Pastries, Apollonia

I Tris Xanthi Ageli: Pastries, Apollonia

Kitrino Podilato: Coffee, Apollonia

Kokkoi Kafe: Coffee, Apollonia

Konaki: Coffee and Pastries, Kastro

Rabagas: Coffee, Apollonia

Veranda: Coffee, Artemonas

Gastronomic Delights

Aperando Galazio: Seafood, Vathy

Astro: Greek Cuisine, Kastro

Cayenne Restaurant: Mediterranean Cuisine, Apollonia

Claudio’s Italian Restaurant: Italian Cuisine, Kamares

Drimoni: Greek Cuisine, Apollonia

Iliovasilema sto Troulaki: Greek Cuisine, Troulaki

Kafenio Drakaki: Ouzo, Meze and Raki, Apollonia

Kapetan Andreas: Seafood, Kamare

Leonidas: Greek Cuisine, Kastro

Okyalos: Mediterranean Cuisine, Apollonia

Omega 3: Mediterranean Cuisine, Platis Gialos

Perivoli: Greek Cuisine, Artemonas

Taverna Chrissopigi – Lembesis: Greek Cuisine, Platis Gialos

To Limanaki: Seafood, Faros

To Steki: Greek Cuisine, Platia Gialos

Tou Apostoli To Koutouki: Mediterranean Cuisine, Apollonia

Tsikali:  Greek Cuisine, Vathy

Cocktails Inspirations

Bola Cafe: Coffee, Vathy

Cosi: Cocktails and Drinks, Apollonia

Doloma: Cocktails and Drinks, Apollonia

Grado Club: Drinks and Dance, Apollonia

Konaki: Cocktails and Drinks, Kastro

Lost Bay Beach Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Platis Gialos

Veranda: Cocktails and Drinks, Artemonas

Local Products & Specialties

The local products of the island include the exquisite thyme honey and the cheeses of xinomizithra, chloromanoura and spicy manoura. 

The local specialties of the island include mastelo, a dish made of lamb cooked in a traditional clay pot, revithada, a dish made of chickpea soup and revithokeftedes made of chickpeas. Sifnos is also famous for its confectionery and bakery delicacies. The specialties of these include cookies, marzipans, pasteli, loukoumades and many more sweets. Discover the confectionaries in Apollonia and Artemonas!

Events & Festivals

Every May or June, the traditional celebration in honor of Panagia Chrissopigi takes place in the monastery of Panagia Chrissopigi. It is the most important religious celebration of Sifnos that is held two Fridays after Easter Sunday.

Every 19th of July, the traditional celebration in honor of Prophet Elias takes place in the monastery of Prophet Elias t’Apsila.

Every August, the Street Party of Radioactive Radio Station takes place in Sifnos.

Every 15th of August, the traditional celebration in honor of Virgin Mary takes place in many churches and monasteries of Sifnos.

Every September, the Festival of Cycladic Gastronomy Nikolaos Tselementes takes place in the village of Artemonas.

History & Mythology

Mythology

According to mythology, the island of Sifnos was dedicated to God Apollo, the god of light, who gifted Sifnos with numerous natural beauties. As a sign of appreciation, the islanders would offer a golden egg to Apollo every year. However, the islanders offered him a gold plated rock when the production of gold was no longer adequate. This gesture resulted into the infuriation of Apollo who sent the tyrant Polycrates to remove all the precious metals and the natural resources of Sifnos leaving the island bare; hence Sifnos.

History

Archaeological excavations show that the island was first inhabited from the tribes of the Pelasgians, the Phoenicians, the Cares and the Leleges during the Neolithic Times. However, the tribes were removed as ordered from Minos, the Cretan Minoan King, who installed his sons as kings of the Cyclades. Archaeological excavations brought to light small settlement in the village of Kastro along with the remnants of an imposing acropolis at the area of Agios Andreas. In 1.600 BC, Sifnos came under the commercial and cultural domination of the Minoans Cretans. However, the island became under the control of the Mycenaean following the explosion of the island of Santorini in 1.400 BC. Around 1.130 BC, Sifnos was colonized from the Ionians as the other islands of the Cyclades and the new capital of the island was established in the area of Kastro. The artistic, cultural and commercial development of Sifnos in that period is proven from the numerous marble buildings, graves, sanctuaries and columns. During the 6th century BC, the inhabitants of Sifnos experienced development due to the exploitation of the gold and silver mines of Sifnos. However, the economy declined due to lack of deposits. Throughout the Roman and Byzantine years, the island served as an exile land until it fell under the domination of Marco Sanudo, the Duke of the Naxos. In 1269, Sifnos was again conquered from the Byzantines while in 1307 the island was dominated from Giannoulis Da Corogna, who declared himself an independent ruler. In 1964, Sifnos came under the power of the Gozzadini family until the Ottomans conquered the Cyclades. Nonetheless, Sifnos remained under the influence of the Gozzadini dynasty until 1617.  Sifnos participated in the revolution of 1821 and in the liberation with an expeditionary force organized by Nikolaos Chrisogelos.

Travel & Transport

By Boat (75 Nautical Miles): Sifnos is accessible by boat from the harbor of Piraeus. The journey usually lasts three to five hours. Serifos is also connected with the islands of Folegandros, Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos and Serifos amongst others.Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !

Mysterious Greece Tips

Cruising around the Western Cyclades

If you have decided to explore the Cyclades by boat, it is worth adding Sifnos to your plan. The close proximity of the surrounding islands including Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos and Serifos make Sifnos an ideal spot for starting your journey. The main port of the island is Kamares that can serve as your main anchorage spot. There are places inside the pier, or you will moor off shore. The bay of Vathy on the southwest side of Sifnos is the safest harbor of the island that suffers only from southwestern winds. Also, Heronisos on the northwest side of the island is a narrow bay offering protection from the northern winds. However, keep in mind that space is limited. Other anchorage spots include the bay of Faros on the southeast side of the island, the beach of Fasolou that mainly suffers from northern and northeastern weather conditions and the small bay of Kastro. You can also moor offshore in Platis Gialos that suffers from south, southeastern and northeastern winds along with the area of Chrissopigi that offers protection from northern winds. Keep in mind that the sea passage between Sifnos and Serifos can be very dangerous depending on the weather conditions!

Ceramics and Pottery: The Ceramic Pottery Workshops of Sifnos

Sifnos is the bulwark of development of pottery in the Cyclades! The first samples of pottery are dating back to the Proto Cycladic period. The abundance of raw materials of the island has helped in the development of pottery. The pottery workshops, known as tsikaladika, were first installed in the hinterland in the villages of Artemonas and Ano Petali in order to be protected from the invasions of the pirates. Visitors can find traces of old potteries in the villages of Kamares, Faros, Platis Gialos and Vathi. The inhabitants of Sifnos spread the art of pottery all over Greece. Today, there are more than twelve pottery workshops on the island that contribute to the preservation of the tradition of their ancestors. One can also visit the small museum of modern pottery in the Monastery of Firogia. The museum operates under the auspices of the Potters’ Union of Sifnos and the Municipal Utility of Sifnos, which holds among its exhibits the Collection of Handmade Pottery of Kosmas Xenakis. The museum is open only in the summer season. Discover the pottery workshops of Sifnos through the Official Website of Sifnos.

Cooking Lessons at the Island of Gastronomy

Homeland of the legendary Greek chef Nikolaos Tselementes, Sifnos is the ideal place to have cooking lessons and discover the exquisite cuisine of the island! Numerous cultural events are organized from the Cultural Association of Sifnos! Find the telephone numbers of the association here.

Cultural Events at the Theatre of Platis Gialos

Every summer, numerous cultural events take place in the small theatre of Platis Gialos!

Discover Sifnos with Sifnos Trails

Sifnos Trails is a project of the municipality of Sifnos that started in 2015. In collaboration with Paths of Greece, the Municipality of Sifnos decided to improve the hiking trails network of the island. The old way-marks have been removed and new ones have been placed, thus harmonizing the way-marking of the network. Sifnos now has more than 100km of professionally designed and way-marked trails, one of the largest trail networks of the Aegean. The ultimate aim of the Sifnos Trails project is to help the island’s visitors explore its natural and cultural beauties in a pleasant way. The project has been entirely funded by the Municipality of Sifnos.

Enjoying a Cocktail at Kavos Sunrise in Apollonia

Hiding in the labyrinthine alleys of Kastro, Kavos Sunrise is one of the best places to enjoy your cocktail in its lovely terrace overlooking the endless blue of the Aegean!

Full Moon Nights on the Highest Spot of Sifnos

Lying on the highest spot of Sifnos, the spectacle of the full moon is definitely breathtaking from the monastery of Prophet Elias Apsilos!

Grab a Tselementes and Start Cooking

Nikolaos Tselementes was one of the most notable Greek chefs and confectionaries of the 20th century. Actually, he is considered to be one of the most influential cookery writers of modern Greece. Born in the village of Exambela, Nikolaos finished school in Athens and started cooking in the restaurant of his father. Tselementes studied cooking in Vienna for a year and he worked for numerous embassies on his return to Greece. He became known with the magazine Cooking Guide (Odigos Magirikis) that began publishing in 1910 with numerous recipes, nutritional advice and cooking news. In 1919, he became manager of the hotel Hermes while he worked in some of the most expensive restaurants of the world when he left for America. In 1920, Nikolaos Tselementes published the influential cookbook namely Cooking and Patisserie Guide. In 1932, he returned to Greece and founded a small cooking and confectionary school. At that time, he published his well known book of recipes, the first complete cookbook in Greek that had over fifteen official reprints. Nikolaos Tselementes died on March 2, 1958. Today, his name (Tselementes) is a synonym for cookbook!

It’s Sunset Time

Watching the sunset from the settlement of Troulaki is definitely must!

Observing like An Olympian God

Sifnos is like an observation point over the Aegean from all its settlements with magnificent views to the endless blue of the Aegean. If you decide to visit the tomb of Soroudi, you will enjoy a panoramic view of the bay of Platis Gialos and the ancient citadel of Agios Andreas. Also, the spectacular location of the church of Panagia Tou Vounou offers astonishing views to the Aegean Sea. The church of Agios Symeon above the harbor of Kamares and the acropolis of Agios Andreas also offer breathtaking views of the surrounding areas!

Our Houses In The Old Days:  “Ioannis Atsonios” Folklore Exhibition

One will have the opportunity to discover the traditional architecture of an old Sifnian house of the old days in the village of Artemonas. The house is fully equipped with traditional furniture, embroideries, gravures, mirrors, a sewing machine, a gramophone of 1900, a cradle of 1880 from Constantinople, a radio from the Interwar period along with old newspapers and marriage contracts.

Participate in the Authentic Festivals of Sifnos

The festivals of Sifnos were always one of the traditional forms of entertainment and religious worship for the inhabitants of the island since the ancient years. Sifnos has managed to maintain its traditions and customs as reflected from the numerous feasts, festivals and celebrations that are held on a monthly basis. The church honors the saint usually one day before the feast, and locals sit on the Trapeza of the church and dine together after the vesper, while the morning of the next day is the liturgy. Some celebrations take place with a festival on the day of the saint while others celebrate only with a liturgy.  The preparations are undertaken from the so-called panigirades. The festivals of Sifnos are one of the things you should not miss if you visit the island that are accompanied from traditional music, food and wine. Discover the traditional and religious celebrations of Sifnos from the Official Website of Sifnos.

Smoke Signals: The Revival of the Communication System of the Ancient Towers of Sifnos

Since 2003, the local people revive the communication system of the towers of Sifnos every Sunday of Pentecost. Two thousand five hundred years after their first use, communication between these points is achieved via smoke and mirrors with the noble participation of dozens of volunteers! These towers were built on strategic geographical positions all around the island. The towers were used for exchanging messages via smoke or fire in order to receive or transmit signals between the four ancient citadels of Sifnos. Keep in mind that Sunday of Pentecost is fifty days after Easter Sunday.

Visit the Confectionaries of Sifnos

Sifnos is renowned for its bakery and confectionary delicacies! You can find the famous Sifnian sweets including anise and butter cookies, casserole marzipans, marzipans in the oven, pasteli, loukouma, patties and sweet preserves at the traditional bakeries and sweetshops mainly in the villages of Apollonia and Artemonas!

Taste the Sifnian Cuisine

In the homeland of Tselementes, the flavors of the Sifnian cuisine are delicious!

The Traditional Celebration on the Uninhabited Isle of Panagia Kitriani

On October 2, the religious celebration in honor of Panagia Kitriani is held in the Church of Panagia Kitriani on the homonymous isle. Traditional boats operate on that day from the harbor of Kamares.

Transforming the Heroes Square into a Christmas Village

During Christmas, the square of Heroes in Apollonia is transformed into a little Christmas village from the Cultural Association of Sifnos and the Municipality of Sifnos. The “village” is open for everybody throughout the holidays in the afternoon. Numerous events and activities are organized to the sound of Christmas starting one week before Christmas until the second day of the New Year. The events are organized from various associations, professionals and local people. These include reciting fairytales, sending letters to Santa Claus, exchanging toys and old book, cooking classes for children, signing Christmas carols, theatrical shows and artifact bazaar. The official commencement of the festivities is the lighting of the lights of the Christmas tree. On New Years Eve, everybody is invited around the tree to welcome the New Year through cakes brought from the Sifnian housewives.

Photo Credits

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Note: All the images are copyrighted from their owners. Please see Terms & Conditions. You can find the original images at the following links:

Apollonia Village: Shutterstock

Ceramic Chimneys: Nikita by Flickr

Church of Panagia Chrisopigi: Marc.Descordes by Flickr

Church of Panagia Poulati: Archway Andres by Flickr

Church of Seven Martyrs: Vassilis Tsikkinis by Flickr

Heronisos Village: Fiona and Robert by Flickr

Kamares Village: Randy by Flickr

Kastro Village: Gilles Messias by Flickr