Discover Serifos

The Capital of Serifos

The Settlement of Hora is the capital of Serifos located on the east side of the island. Perched on the hilltop, the Hora of Serifos is considered to be one of the most beautiful medieval villages in the Cyclades. The location surely guarantees panoramic views of the countryside. The traditional architecture of the area is a true specimen of the Cycladic style. The castle is one most intriguing parts of Hora that constitutes the neighborhood of Pano Hora. The castle is the oldest part of Hora located on the highest spot of the main village of Serifos. It is a fortified settlement that was constructed in 1430 in order to provide safety to the bonded laborers within the walls. The church of Agios Konstantinos stands on the highest point of the village offering one of the best sunset views on the island. The monuments of Pano Hora include the neoclassical building of the Town Hall, the Square of the Windmills and the Archaeological Collection of Serifos. The image of the most beautiful settlement of the island complements the neighborhood of Kato Hora. The imposing church of Evangelistria stands on the central square surrounded from whitewashed houses and charming chapels. The Festival of Serifos takes place in the beautiful settlement during the summer. Keep in mind that there are no vehicular roads within the settlment Hora.

The Beach of Ganema

The Beach of Ganema is the most beautiful beach of Serifos. It is a long white sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. Ganema is considered to be one of the most attractive beaches in the Aegean. The beach is ideal for those looking for tranquility and peacefulness.

The Festivals of Serifos

The Festivals of Serifos were always one of the traditional forms of entertainment and religious worship for the inhabitants of the island since the ancient years. Serifos 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 ktitores, the descendants of the families who owned the surrounding land and financed the construction of the churches. The festivals of Serifos are one of the things you should not miss if you visit the island that are accompanied from traditional music, food and wine.

The Monastery of Taxiarhes

The Monastery of Taxiarhes is the most important religious center of Serifos located in the village of Galani. The monastery was built in 1527 and it is dedicated to Archangel Michael and Gabriel, the patron saints of Serifos. The architecture of the monastery has a fortified architecture as it was usually invaded from pirates. Inside the monastery, one can admire a wooden carved screen with a throne along with the murals of Emmanuel Skordilis that represent the fight of the Archangel against the Dragon of the Revelation. The monastery also displays numerous religious heirlooms, the Sacred Codes of 1753 and valuable rare books.

The Old Mines of Serifos

The Old Mines of Serifos are located in the village of Megalo Livadi. The mines have existed since ancient times that gave prosperity to the islanders until the Roman times. During the Venetian Empire, the mines opened again and gave prosperity to Serifos. The numerous pirate invasions and the attacks from the Ottomans who conquered the island led again to the closure of the mines. Following the Revolution of 1821, Serifos reopened once more the mines of the island and the economy of Serifos was boomed. However, the working conditions were awful and the safety measures were inadequate. All the mining activities were controlled from the German Groman Company that exploited the mineworkers until an unfortunate strike. Constantine Spears organized the labor strike in 1919 who has good knowledge in gearing up activities for the rights of the working class making them demand between working conditions and an eight hour work rule per day. Nevertheless, the fight between the police and the strikers ended in the death of four mineworkers. In reprisal, the workers stoned the battalion to death and the company agreed to create proper working conditions. As the mining rocks finished, the activities also stopped. One can admire the monument in memory of those who died in the strike in front of the head offices. You can also walk along the old mines and see the bridge where the loading took place along with the arched rooms in the nearby bay of Almyros.

The Throne of Cyclops

The Throne of Cyclops, else known as Psaropyrgos, is a rectangular slate building located in the village of Megalo Livadi. The spectacular location of the throne offers panoramic views of the southwest side of the island.  Further down, the entrance of the cave of Cyclops is located. According to mythology, Cyclops lived in this cave on the island of Serifos. Bear in mind that the cave is not accessible.

The Village of Galani

The Village of Galani is a mountainous village located on the north side of the island. The beautiful settlement maintains the traditional architecture of the Cyclades. Spreading amphitheatrically on the mountain slopes, the settlement has an authentic atmosphere with whitewashed houses and narrow alleys. Here, one can admire one of the most beautiful views of the endless blue of the Aegean. Lovers of exploring can follow the trail that leads to the beautiful bay of Sikamia.

The Throne of Cyclops, else known as Psaropyrgos, is a rectangular slate building located in the village of Megalo Livadi. The spectacular location of the throne offers panoramic views of the southwest side of the island.  Further down, the entrance of the cave of Cyclops is located. According to mythology, Cyclops lived in this cave on the island of Serifos. Bear in mind that the cave is not accessible.

The Vaulted Tomb of Serifos is located in the village of Kentarhos. Historical evidence indicates that the tomb had a height of two meters. It is believed that it was the over ground tomb of a Roman centurion. The remains of the vaulted tomb are the sole significant remnants of the area.

The Castle of Gria stands on the conical rocky hill above the bay of Ganema. Although excavations have to been yet done, there are indications that there was an ancient castle while the strategic position was the major advantage of the castle. However, the rough path on the south side of the hill constitutes the major obstacle for those who try to climb there.

The Castle of Serifos is the oldest part of Hora located on the highest spot of the main village of Serifos. It is a fortified settlement that was constructed in 1430 in order to provide safety to the bonded laborers within the walls. The church of Agios Konstantinos stands on the highest spots of the castle. There, one will have the opportunity to witness one of the most beautiful sunsets of the island.

The White Tower is one of the most well preserved towers of the island standing on the hilltop over the bay of Koutalas. The tower is a circular marble building built in 4^th century BC as a watchtower in order to control the area. Here, one can admire panoramic views over the island of Serifos.

The Church of Agios Athanasios is the cathedral of Serifos situated next to the neoclassical building of the town hall. Inside the church, one can admire beautiful hagiographies from Apostolos Grekos along with a wood carved temple of the 18^th century.

The Church of Agios Ioannis Theologos is considered to be one of the most important monuments of the island. Carved into rock, the church was built on the remnants of the ancient temple of Athena. Also, it is believed that in one of the catacombs lies the legendary head of Medusa that was brought from Perseus to the island.

The Church of Agios Konstantinos lies on the highest point of Hora. The whitewashed chapel with the blue doors provides one of the finest views of the island of Serifos.

The Church of Evangelistria is an imposing church located at the charming square of Kato Hora. Built in the beginning of the 20^th century, the church boasts a beautiful blue dome surrounded from marble plates.

The Church of Panagia is the oldest church of Serifos located on the central square of the homonymous village. It was constructed in the end of the 10^th century. Inside the temple, one can admire an impressive wood carved iconostasis with hagiographies.

The Church of Panagia Skopiani is one of the most important religious centers of Serifos located close to the village of Kallitsos. The imposing church is dedicated to the Dormition of Virgin Mary. Here, the largest traditional celebration of Serifos takes place on August 15. The feast is accompanied from food and wine. The church offers panoramic views to the deep blue of the Aegean.

The Monastery of Taxiarhes is the most important religious center of Serifos located in the village of Galani. The monastery was built in 1527 and it is dedicated to Archangel Michael and Gabriel, the patron saints of Serifos. The architecture of the monastery has a fortified architecture as it was usually invaded from pirates. Inside the monastery, one can admire a wooden carved screen with a throne along with the murals of Emmanuel Skordilis that represent the fight of the Archangel against the Dragon of the Revelation. The monastery also displays numerous religious heirlooms, the Sacred Codes of 1753 and valuable rare books.

The Lighthouse of Serifos dominates Cape of Spathi on the southern side of the island. It is a special cobblestone construction of 1900 with a charming courtyard that overlooks the Aegean. Access is possible through a rough trail from the area of Livadi.

The Mining Headquarters is a neoclassical building built by the sea in the village of Megalo Livadi. The building was constructed in 1890 with the architectural style of Ernst Ziller in order to house the offices and the warehouses of the mining company namely Serifos Spiliazeza. The remnants of the building provide the opportunity to admire the traces of the long history of mining of the island. The neoclassical building has been characterized as a monument of modern culture from the State of Greece.

The Monument of the Mineworkers is dedicated to the four mineworkers who lost their lives following the bloody strike in August 21, 1916. Constantine Spears organized the labor strike in 1919 who has good knowledge in gearing up activities for the rights of the working class making them demand between working conditions and an eight hour work rule per day. Nevertheless, the fight between the police and the strikers ended in the death of many mineworkers.

The Old Mines of Serifos are located in the village of Megalo Livadi. The mines have existed since ancient times that gave prosperity to the islanders until the Roman times. During the Venetian Empire, the mines opened again and gave prosperity to Serifos. The numerous pirate invasions and the attacks from the Ottomans who conquered the island led again to the closure of the mines. Following the Revolution of 1821, Serifos reopened once more the mines of the island and the economy of Serifos was boomed. However, the working conditions were awful and the safety measures were inadequate. All the mining activities were controlled from the German Groman Company that exploited the mineworkers until an unfortunate strike. Constantine Spears organized the labor strike in 1919 who has good knowledge in gearing up activities for the rights of the working class making them demand between working conditions and an eight hour work rule per day. Nevertheless, the fight between the police and the strikers ended in the death of four mineworkers. In reprisal, the workers stoned the battalion to death and the company agreed to create proper working conditions. As the mining rocks finished, the activities also stopped. One can admire the monument in memory of those who died in the strike in front of the head offices. You can also walk along the old mines and see the bridge where the loading took place along with the arched rooms in the nearby bay of Almyros.

The Windmills of Serifos is one of the most characteristic images of Hora located at e square of the Mills. In the old days, the windmills operated by wind as Serifos is renowned for its gusty winds. Although the windmills are no longer operational, they continue to be a symbol of the long history of the island.

The Archaeological Museum of Serifos is housed in the Town Hall in Hora. Exhibits include interesting finds from the Hellenistic and Roman period in the excavated areas of Serifos. These include marble statuettes, vessels, inscriptions, fractures of armors and funerary stylae.

The Folklore Museum of Serifos is located in Hora. The museum displays agricultural tools, minerals, gemstones and folklore objects from the traditional life of the island. The main aim of the folklore museum is to preserve the traditional of Serifos through the passage of time.

Galani is a mountainous village located on the north side of the island. The beautiful settlement maintains the traditional architecture of the Cyclades. Spreading amphitheatrically on the mountain slopes, the settlement has an authentic atmosphere with whitewashed houses and narrow alleys. Here, one can admire one of the most beautiful views of the endless blue of the Aegean. Lovers of exploring can follow the trail that leads to the beautiful bay of Sikamia.

Hora is the capital of Serifos located on the east side of the island. Perched on the hilltop, the Hora of Serifos is considered to be one of the most beautiful medieval villages in the Cyclades. The location surely guarantees panoramic views of the countryside. The traditional architecture of the area is a true specimen of the Cycladic style. The castle is one most intriguing parts of Hora that constitutes the neighborhood of Pano Hora. The castle is the oldest part of Hora located on the highest spot of the main village of Serifos. It is a fortified settlement that was constructed in 1430 in order to provide safety to the bonded laborers within the walls. The church of Agios Konstantinos stands on the highest point of the village offering one of the best sunset views on the island. The monuments of Pano Hora include the neoclassical building of the Town Hall, the Square of the Windmills and the Archaeological Collection of Serifos. The image of the most beautiful settlement of the island complements the neighborhood of Kato Hora. The imposing church of Evangelistria stands on the central square surrounded from whitewashed houses and charming chapels. The Festival of Serifos takes place in the beautiful settlement during the summer. Keep in mind that there are no vehicular roads within the settlement Hora.

Kallitsos, else known as Kentarhos, is a seaside village located on the northeast side of the island. The settlement is a fine sample of the traditional architecture of the Cyclades embellished with whitewashed houses and narrow alleys. It is worth wandering around the labyrinthine alleys, the traditional houses and the beautiful pigeonholes. One can admire the remnants of the vaulted tomb on the northern end of the settlement. Here, one will have the opportunity to appreciate astonishing views of the deep blue of the Aegean.

Koutalas is a seaside village located on the southwest side of the island. The beautiful settlement is ideal for those looking for relaxation and tranquility. The most intriguing monuments of the area include the imposing beach of Vagia, the Castle of Gria that stands on a hill offering panoramic views of the bay of Koutalas and the Hellenistic Tower known as Aspros Pyrgos. Lovers of hiking can follow the interesting route leading to Livadi. This trail includes numerous natural landscapes and beautiful beaches along the coastline.

Livadi is the harbor of Serifos located on the southeast side of the island. The seaside village is the largest settlement of the island embellished with whitewashed houses and narrow alleys. Numerous boats operate from Livadi offering travellers short trips to nearby islands including Kythnos and Sifnos. Livadi has a marina ideal for anchorage for yachts and inflatables.

Megalo Livadi is a seaside village located on the southwest side of the island. The most interesting sight of the area is the old mines of Serifos. Numerous elements from the long mining history of the island can be admired including the mining ladder and the monument of the mining workers along with numerous railway lines and old wagons. Other interesting monuments include the charming churches of Agia Triada and Agios Ioannis Prodromos. As the settlement is built around a deep bay, it is well protected from the winds ideal for anchorage. The combination of the beautiful beaches and the historical sites makes Megalo Livadi definitely a place worth visiting.

Panagia is a charming village located on the north side of the island. The traditional settlement spreads amphitheatrically around the homonymous byzantine church known as Xylopanagia. It is the oldest church of Serifos that celebrates with a traditional feast on August 15. It is worth wandering around the labyrinthine cobblestone alleys, the traditional houses and the colorful courtyards that attest the traditional character of Panagia. Before leaving, admire the views from the settlement over the northern coastline of Serifos.

Spot: Beach of Sikamia, Northwest Serifos

Spot: Beach of Vagia, Southwest Serifos

Spot: Church of Agios Konstantinos, East Serifos

Spot: Village of Megalo Livadi, Southwest Serifos

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 barren landscape of Kythnos has a mysterious wild beauty, where the sun rays are reflecting in an impressive way at the white colour of the houses and the deep blue of the sea. Messaria or Hora, the capital of Kythnos, is a true sample of the traditional architecture of the Cyclades.  Whitewashed houses and blue windows, stone windmills and light blue domes, labyrinthine alleys and flowery courtyards spread amphitheatrically around the mountain slopes of the dry sceneries of the island overlooking the Kythnian countryside. The  climate of Kythnos is clearly Mediterranean! The beautiful landscapes of the island seem like they have been untouched from the passage of time, as demonstrated from the whitewashed houses of Messaria and the two storey houses with red tiled roofs of Driopida. The paths of Kythnos are wonderful giving you the opportunity to discover the mountainous landscapes of the hinterland, the stone walls and the deep blue of the Aegean from the beautiful cells and stockyards, the most beautiful observatories of the Aegean. Marble fountains with flowing waters, the open air museum on the beach of Apokrousi with the scattered column capitals in the sand, the Byzantine fragments on 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 you own sounds of steps within the hidden abundance of the inland of this island forever.

Boat Trip: The Island of 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 the dry barren nature along with 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 closely enough, you will might event 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 Sifnos… this is the most outstanding feeling of Sifnos! Will you let yourself discover this feeling?

Camping: Are you a camping lover? You will find one of the best campsites in the Aegean on the beach of Livadakia.

Canoeing and Kayaking: Serifos is an island with strong contrasts and an active magnetic field of metalliferous rocks. Sheltered beaches and craggy cliffs with crystal clear waters create an amazing landscape for lovers of canoeing and kayaking. Excursions include explorations of sea caves and rocky islands and swimming in isolated beaches. Discover more information from Serifos Sea Kayak Center at the beach of Avlomonas.

Diving: The varied coastline of Serifos offers numerous exciting explorations for diving enthusiasts. Shipwrecks, reefs and sunken mines are some of the most interesting diving spots. Recommended areas for diving include the shipwreck in Kalogeros, the isle of Glaronisi and the isle of Serifopoula. One can find a diving center at the beach of Livadi.

Hiking: Serifos hosts numerous paths ideal for lovers of hiking. (1) One of the most beautiful routes is known as the Road of Plakes that was used from the miners in order to reach the west side of the island. It is a preserved signposted path that starts just before the helipad leading to Agios Georgios. (2) Another interesting trail includes the one that connects Kato Hora to the settlement of Livadi. The path starts from the water fountain on the main road of Kato Hora. One will have the opportunity to visit the imposing church of Evangelistria, the Folklore Museum, the Monument of the Heroes, the church of Panagia Xekourastra along with the church of Agios Isidoros. Discover more information from the Municipality of Serifos.

Kitesurfing: Serifos is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of kitesurfing, as the island gets really windy especially in the summer when the north winds are blowing. The most accessible beaches to practice kitesurfing include the beaches of Livadi and Livadakia.

Mountain Biking and Mountain Climbing: The topography of Serifos boasts numerous paths ideal for lovers of mountain biking. The morphology of the isle of Piperi is ideal for lovers of mountain climbing. Piperi is located on the northern side of Serifos.

Sailing: If you have decided to explore the Cyclades by boat, it is worth adding Serifos to your plan. The close proximity of the surrounding islands including Kimolos, Kythnos, Milos and Sifnos make Serifos an ideal spot for starting your journey. The marina in Livadi can serve as an anchorage location. The bay of Koutalas is the best mooring on the west side of Serifos protected from all weather conditions while the bays of Malliadiko and Vagia are safe from western and eastern winds.

Spearfishing: Serifos is an ideal destination for lovers of spearfishing. The bays of Koutalas on the southwest coast of the island along with the cape of Spathi on the south side of the island are interesting spearfishing spots. Also, the beach of Avessalos and the isle of Vous are equally interesting.

Windsurfing: Serifos is known for its ideal conditions for lovers of windsurfing, as the island gets really windy especially in the summer when the north winds are blowing. The most accessible beaches to practice windsurf include the beaches of Livadi and Livadakia.

Agios Sostis is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of the island. The beach is ideal for those looking for tranquility and relaxation. One can enjoy panoramic views from the charming chapel of Agios Sostis located on the edge of a cliff.

Ai Giannis is a sandy and pebbled beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for tranquility. One can enjoy beautiful views from the charming chapel of Agios Ioannis Theologos.

Avessalos is a pebbled beach with emerald waters located on the west side of the island. The beach is ideal for those looking for tranquility. It is advisable to bring all the appropriate necessities with you.

Avlomonas is a sandy beach with blue waters located on the southeast side of the island. It is one of the most popular beaches of Serifos due to its close proximity to the main harbor of the island. Numerous cafeterias and taverns operate on the beach offering sunbeds and umbrellas.

Ganema is a long sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is the most beautiful beach of Serifos. The beach is ideal for those looking for tranquility with numerous trees that provide shade.

Kalo Ambeli is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the south side of the island. It is one of the quietest beaches of Serifos that consists from four bays namely Koutalas, Malliadiko and Dyo Lagoudia. Kalo Ambeli is a beautiful isolated beach ideal for those looking for relaxation. Also, the beach offers panoramic views of the surrounding areas.

Karavi is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of the island. It is a secluded beach ideal for those looking for isolation. Access is possible either from the beach of Livadakia or from the settlement of Rammos. Lovers of diving can discover an interesting shipwreck in the area. Karavi offers panoramic views to the island of Sifnos.

Lia is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of the island. The beach is quite secluded ideal for lovers of nature as Lia is an impressive bay of wild beauty.

Livadakia is a long sandy beach with emerald waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is one of the most popular beaches of Serifos with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars and taverns. Also, an organized campsite operates behind the beach. Lovers of windsurfing can practice their favorite sport in the beach.

Megalo Livadi is a sandy beach with emerald waters located on the southwest side of the island. The area used to be one of the main loading sites for the mining industry of the past of Serifos. The beach is ideal for those looking for relaxation and tranquility. Numerous trees offer shade from the sun.

Malliadiko is a sandy bay with emerald waters located on the southwest side of the island. It is a rather secluded beach ideal for those looking for relaxation and lovers of free camping. One can also discover the beach of Kalogeros from the west side of the bay. Access is possible from the west side of the village of Mega Livadi.

Platis Gialos is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the north side of the island. It is a quiet beach ideal for those looking for relaxation. A tavern operate close to the beach.

Psili Ammos is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the east side of the island. It is one of the most beautiful and popular beaches of Serifos with numerous amenities including sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars and taverns. If you are looking for something more tranquil, visit the neighboring beaches of Agios Ioannis and Lia.

Sikamia is a sandy and pebbled beach with blue waters located on the northwest side of the island. It is one of the longest beaches of Serifos ideal for those looking for tranquility and isolation. A tavern operates close to the beach.

Vagia is a sandy beach with turquoise waters located on the southwest side of the island. The beach boasts sceneries of wild beauty and it is considered as one of the most beautiful beaches of Serifos. Vagia is ideal for those looking for tranquility and isolation.  It is worth staying here until the sunset hours!

Coffee Corners

Aerino: Coffee, Hora

Anemos: Coffee, Livadi

Indigo: Coffee and Pastries, Livadi

Medusa: Pastries, Livadi

Oi Myloi: Coffee, Hora

Yacht Club Serifos: Coffee, Hora

Gastronomic Delights

Aloni: Mediterranean Cuisine, Tsigouri

Ganema: Greek Cuisine, Ganema

I Kali: Seafood, Livadi

Kiklopas: Greek Cuisine, Mega Livadi

Marathoriza: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Margarita: Greek Cuisine, Livadi

Metalio: Greek Cuisine, Livadi

Nikoulias: Greek Cuisine, Platis Gialos

Plakes: Greek Cuisine, Hora

Stou Stratou: Ouzo and Meze, Hora

To Bakakaki: Steakhouse, Livadi

Cocktails Inspirations

Aerino: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Barbarossa: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Calma Beach Bar: Cocktails and Drinks, Livadi

Gaidaros: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Pano Piazza: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

Shark Club: Cocktails and Drinks, Livadi

Vatrahos: Cocktails and Drinks, Hora

The local products of the island include almonds, bread and the cheese of xinomizithra. Serifos is also known for the special aroma and flavor of its local wines and the local raki namely souma. Honey is one of the most popular local products of Serifos.

The local specialties of the island include marathotiganites, a dish made from funnel, onions served with yogurt, revithada, a dish made with chickpeas, fava, a dip made from split peas and olive oil, dried tomatoes and pastaki, a dessert made with vanilla and chocolate cream accompanied from biscuits.

Every 4^th and 5^th of May, the traditional celebration in honor of Agia Irini takes place in the church of Agia Irini at Koutalas. The feast is accompanied from traditional music, food and wine.

Every 20^th and 21^st of May, the traditional celebration in honor of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni takes place in the church of Agios Konstantinos and Agia Eleni at the village of Kallitsos. The feast is accompanied from traditional music, food and wine.

Every summer, the Festival of Serifos takes place on the island. Numerous cultural and musical events are held in various locations.

Every Holy Spirit Day, the traditional celebration in honor of the Holy Spirit takes place in the church of Agio Pnevma at Mavra Voladia. The feast is accompanied from traditional music, food and wine. Another celebration is held in the church of Panagia Liomandra on the same day.

Every 14^th and 15^th of August, the traditional celebration in honor of Virgin Mary takes place in the church of Panagia Skopiani. Other celebrations are held in the churches of Panagia Rammos, Panagia Pyrgos and Panagia Liomandra on the same day. The feasts are accompanied from traditional music, food and wine.

Every 29^th of August, the traditional celebration in honor of Agios Ioannis takes place in the church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos at Sklavogianni.

Every 6^th and 7^th of September, the traditional celebration in honor of Agios Sostis takes place in the church of Agios Sostis at the homonymous beach. The feast is accompanied from traditional music, food and wine.

Every September, the Serifos Sunset Race takes place on the island.

Mythology

According to mythology, the island of Serifos was inhabited from the legendary giant called Cyclops in the cave close to Psaropyrgos. Another legend associated with Serifos is the one with the mythical hero Perseus, the son of Zeus and Danae, who was the daughter of the king of Argos, Arkissios. Following an unfavorable oracle, the king put his daughter and his grandchild in a wooden boat and sent them in the Aegean Sea. Dyktis, the first king of Serifos, welcomed Danae and Perseus in Serifos. However, Polydektis, the second king of Serifos, fell in love with Danae. Then, he decided to send Perseus to kill Medusa. Medusa was notorious for petrifying anyone who was staring at her.  Nonetheless, Perseus succeeded in killing Medusa with the aid of the weapons of Gods, mainly through the shield of Athena that he used as a mirror to avoid looking directly in her eyes. Then, he returned in Serifos demonstrating the head of Medusa to Polydektis who got petrified. According to the legend of Perseus, this is the reason that the island is so rocky.

History

Archaeological excavations show that Serifos has been inhabited since the prehistoric times. The first inhabitants are considered to be the Aeolians from Thessaly, the Ionians from Attica followed from the Phoenicians, the Cretans and the Mycenaean who exploited the mines of the island. During the Classical Years, Serifos became a part of the Second Athenian Alliance along with the majority of the Cyclades and Dodecanese Islands. Afterwards, the island was conquered from the descendants of Alexander the Great, the Romans, who used the island as a place for political exiles, and the Franks. At that time, Serifos experienced a rapid development owing to the mining activity. Later, the island became a part of the Duchy of the Aegean while it was then conquered from the Turkish Empire. The pirate invasions in the Aegean were a frequent phenomenon that affected repeatedly the island of Serifos creating a need for defense and protection as reflected from the fortified architecture of the castle of Hora and the monastery of Taxiarhes. In 1821, Serifos participated in the Greek revolution to be liberated from the shackles of the Ottoman Empire. A few years later, Serifos became a part of the newly founded Greek State. The mining activity of Serifos constitutes the main characteristic of the history of the island.

By Boat (82 Nautical Miles): Serifos 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 Sifnos amongst others. Book your tickets with FerriesinGreece.com !