Welcome to Serifos, a hidden gem among the Greek islands. Nestled in the heart of the Cyclades, Serifos boasts not only stunning natural beauty but also a rich history and vibrant local culture waiting to be discovered.

Chora:

Serifos Chora stands as one of the most picturesque Chora towns in the Greek islands. This enchanting settlement is perched amphitheatrically on a hill, offering breathtaking vistas of the Livadi port below. Its beauty is further accentuated by the presence of the Kastro, a historical relic from the Venetian era. The layout of Chora, like many Cycladic Chora towns, resembles a maze, a labyrinth of narrow alleys. This intricate design served a crucial purpose in the island's history. Locals navigated these labyrinthine streets effortlessly, while invaders found themselves easily disoriented. This clever layout allowed the islanders to ambush potential threats, safeguarding their homeland from plunder and pillage.

Furthermore, the Cyclades are notorious for the powerful north winds that sweep across the Aegean Sea during both winter and summer. Chora's narrow streets provide protection against these strong gusts. Begin your exploration of Chora by wandering through Myli Square, where you'll encounter the iconic windmills on your left as you arrive. From there, ascend to Agios Athanassios Square, also known as Pano Piatsa, home to a charming church and undeniably one of Chora's most beautiful squares. If you visit in the afternoon or evening, you'll witness the square bustling with activity, as it is a major focal point for locals and visitors alike.

Adjacent to the Agios Athanassios church stands the Town Hall, a noteworthy departure from the typical Cycladic architecture. Instead, it boasts a Mediterranean-Venetian style with its red-tiled roof, earthy hues, and sharp edges. Despite its distinctiveness, the Town Hall is in need of renovation. Within this captivating square, you'll discover three traditional Greek island cafeterias, each adorned with vibrant red, yellow, and turquoise chairs and tables. Together with the blue dome of the church and the reddish Town Hall, this creates a stunning palette of colors that delights the eye. If shopping is on your agenda, explore the "100% Greek" and "Thidira" concept stores.

After your time in the square, continue your ascent towards the pinnacle of Chora, following the signs marked "Kastro." Along the way, you'll encounter the Agios Konstantinos church at the very top. The journey involves climbing stairs, which, while not overly strenuous, can be quite exposed to the scorching Greek sun, especially at midday. Your efforts will be richly rewarded with a breathtaking panoramic view. From the top, you can gaze to the east and south, with the possibility of spotting neighboring islands like Sifnos, Milos, Antimilos, Kimolos, and Polyaigos to the south. To the east, you may see Syros, Paros, Antiparos, and even Mykonos on a clear day. Additionally, keep an eye out for Vous, a peculiar islet to the east that resembles a sleeping ox in shape.

A special tip: If you happen to find yourself in Chora during a full moon, make sure to witness its rise from the east. It emerges from the horizon, initially appearing a deep red before gradually brightening as it ascends, casting its ethereal light over the sea and land. It's a profoundly romantic sight you won't want to miss.

The Monastery of the Taxiarches:

Don't forget to visit the Monastery of the Taxiarches, located in the northeastern part of the island. Established in 1570, this monastery played a crucial role in defending the island against pirates and safeguarding its residents. Its strategic location, offering a 180-degree view of the Aegean Sea, allowed the monks to alert the islanders to imminent pirate attacks during both Venetian and Ottoman rule.

The Monastery's significance stems from its dedication to the Taxiarchs, the Archangels Michael and Gabriel, revered figures in the Greek Orthodox Church. Michael is known for his strictness, while Gabriel is seen as more gentle. The Taxiarchs are celebrated on November 8th, a day marked by the superstition of not leaving one's shoes outside the house the night before, as it is believed that Archangel Michael will take them away, bringing bad luck.

On the evening of November 7th, the Monastery hosts one of its most significant annual celebrations. The monastery's monk prepares a communal meal in the old stone kitchen for all attendees, followed by a traditional sleepover pajama party in the old cells. As the sun rises, a church service is held, marking the conclusion of the festivities.

The Monastery's second point of significance lies in its wealth. It housed a miraculous and healing image of the Virgin Mary, brought from Cyprus. This image attracted pilgrims from across the Aegean Sea who sought solace and healing, often leaving behind jewelry and valuable possessions. Unfortunately, this also attracted the attention of pirates who attempted to raid the Monastery repeatedly. The Monastery, resembling more of a fortress than a traditional monastery, was fortified by locals with walls and crenellations to effectively repel invaders, sometimes using boiling oil as a defense.

The Monastery is open from morning until 1:30 pm and reopens at 4:30 pm until dusk, providing a tranquil and beautiful place for contemplation.

For hiking enthusiasts, I highly recommend the Petrias Trail, one of my favorite hiking routes. It offers breathtaking views without being overly challenging and begins just after Plakes restaurant.

The Mining Site in Mega Livadi:

The Mega Livadi mining site holds tremendous historical significance for Serifos. This open-air museum tells its story through its natural surroundings, featuring rocks, sea, caves, rusty wagons, and stone houses. Be sure to visit the "Loutra" spot, where miners once sought respite in healing waters when their health deteriorated.

In the town by the beach, you'll find the Museum of the Miners, displaying tools used by miners and minerals extracted from the depths of Serifos, including green quartz, hematite, fluorite, lead crystals, limonite, and malachite. The museum typically opens its doors from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm during the summer months, offering a glimpse into the island's rich mining history.

These sights and experiences reveal the unique charm and rich history of Serifos, making it a captivating destination for travelers seeking both natural beauty and cultural heritage..