Sifnos Page 4

The Byzantine defensive walls are part-and-parcel of the walls of houses within the keep's outer perimeter. Many have wooden balconies with Venetian coat-of-arms. Today only about 35 families live in Kastro.

The old Venetian Church of St. Anthony of Padula is home of the Archeological Museum (Tu-Sun, 9-2). The site of the School of the Holy Tomb, a clandestine learning institution run by Greek Orthodox Monks during the Turkish occupation, has now been turned into the graveyard.

While there is no beach at Kastro, you can dive into the sea from the rocks. If you're seeking something safer than diving from rocks, there is a beach near by. Walk down the hill by foot path to Seralia, Kastro's medieval port.

The upper road continues south and transits Exambela village centered in one of the most productive agrarian areas of Sifnos with springs and orchards. This flower-filled village is famous for its songs.

The Monastery of Vrisi (1612) is still operational and contains old manuscripts and icons. It is surrounded by springs.

The Plati Yialos road passes the ancient religious citadel of Aghios Andreas with ruins of its double walls. A bit further north, at Katavati, a foot path leads up to Sifnos' highest peak, Mt. Profitis Ilias (681m). It's a two to three hour hike up. On its summit is the 8th Century monastery Profitis Ilias with a small network of catacombs, cells and thick stone walls. The views are rather good.

The South Coast

The road continues south on to Faros (lighthouse), a welcoming fishing village turned resort with rooms to let and a sandy beach. You can take the footpath up to Sifnos' famous Monastery of Panagia Chrissopigi (1650) built on the cliffs facing the sea.

According to legend the cape here was split in two in response to the prayers of two virgins fleeing from pirates. Therefore, you can enjoy not one but two sandy beaches with tavernas near by. Apokofto, by the bridge, has golden sands. Fasolou has become popular with nudists.

More Sifnos Page: 1 | 2 | 3 | 4 | 5 | 6