Fidelya

Beautiful Cycladic Syros was once an important commercial hub, a stepping stone between Asia Minor and the western Mediterranean. Its capital, the busy port of Hermoupolis, was founded in the 1820s during the Greek War of Independence and named after Hermes, the Greek god of commerce.

Hermoupolis prospered as its stature as a vibrant entrepot for trade and shipping grew. Merchants and entrepreneurs transformed the town into a highly desirable place to live and do business. Well-off traders and the upper classes built graceful homes and impressive neo-classical civic buildings, many of which survive today, such as the town hall on the main square and the Apollo Municipal Theatre, a mini replica of La Scala di Milano. Crowding around the harbour, houses rise up two hills, each one topped with an impressive church - one catholic, Agios Giorgios, and one Greek Orthodox, the Resurrection of Christ. It's a very pleasant, historic town with an important industrial heritage, plenty of things to see and do, and a good selection of cafés, bars, restaurants and shops.

Today, Syros is considered the capital of the Cyclades and it's a popular destination for families and those looking for a laid-back vibe without mass tourism. There are numerous lovely beaches scattered around the coast, particularly in the south close to Fidelya. Apart from Megas Gialos and Varis (mentioned at the beginning), these include Komito, Posidonia and Agathopes in the southwest, Galissa on the west coast, and Azolimnos and Fokiotripes in the southeast. All are within a 15-minute drive.