The ancient capital of Sifnos is an impressive settlement with distinctive architecture and captivating views of the Aegean.
Arriving in Sifnos there is so much to discover. From traditional settlements and beautiful Cycladic landscapes to distinctive local flavors, this Cycladic island has it all and offers it in aunique package of beauty and harmony. You can’t come to Sifnos without visiting the Kastro,the old capital on the island’s eastern side, set on a steep rock with incredible views over the open sea. Wandering the narrow, picturesque alleys of this village is a journey through time - an experience that will stay with you forever.
A stroll in the Kastro of Sifnos
A 3.5-kilometer downhill road will lead you to the Kastro, starting from Apollonia and taking your breath away when, at a sharp turn, the settlement appears. Kastro was the capital of Sifnos during antiquity, the medieval and the more recent period until 1836. It is a designated traditional settlement,built with fortress-like characteristics.
The village preserves its fortified medieval form unchanged and resembles a living museum. Entry to the Kastro is through the old entrances - arcades, the loggias. The layout of the street levels is such that passage is often provided by small bridges. The houses of the settlement fall into two categories: narrow-fronted single houses and mansions. The narrow-fronted single houses, mainly of the outer ring, are built tightly one next to the other and form the outer section of the settlement.
As you explore the Kastro you’ll seecobbled lanes with low stone benches, old houses with wooden balconies, small courtyards that connect, ancient columns, carved marble Roman sarcophagi, as well as a square in front of the church of Saint John the Theologian. Hidden in the Kastro’s alleys, and also on the outside, there are accommodations, restaurants, cafés, jewelry shops and pastry workshops with Sifnos’s local sweets.
Also, the Archaeological Museum of Sifnos,operates in Kastro, while various exhibitions are organized in the old primary school during the summer months. On the southern side of the hill of Kastro lies Seralia, the ancient port of Sifnos. It’s worth visiting for relaxation and food at the restaurants located there.
The picturesque chapel of the Seven Martyrs
At the eastern edge of Kastro stands one of the most beautiful churches you can visit on the island and one of the most photographed spots in Sifnos. The picturesque chapel of the Seven Martyrs is built on the top of a rock that seems to rise from the sea’s foam. Don’t miss the chance to walk there (there is a path that starts from Kastro) - the scenery is magical!
