OUR ISLAND
Sikinos
The Charm of Simplicity
Our Island: Sikinos
Sikinos is one of the most secluded Greek islands of the Cyclades. Its proximity to these islands makes it a great destination for quick getaways and island hopping. Still untouched by mass tourism, Sikinos has managed to keep its traditional charm and laid-back atmosphere, which makes it an ideal destination for relaxing holidays in Greece!
Alopronoia Village
The second largest village on Sikinos is also the harbour of the island. Spread around the bay that includes the harbour and the beach, Alopronoia has many rooms to rent as well as tavernas and cafes. The sandy beach is long and has shallow water. There are several tamarisk trees for shade while on the right hand side and above the beach, there are cafes and tavernas.
Kastro Village
The largest village on Sikinos, together with neighboring Chorio, makes up the Chora, or main town, of the island. This is a fortified 15th century village which was built at 280 meters above sea level. The atmosphere of the medieval village survives in the narrow alleys, the low, whitewashed little houses, the arcades and the blooming courtyards. A stroll in the square, to the little churches, and around the periphery of the village that gazes down to the sea comprises a unique experience.
Chorio Village
Horio is one of two villages that make up Hora, Sikinos. Horio is built on a hill opposite Kastro and consists mainly of houses and churches. Narrow slopes, passages, terraces, old houses and an endless view, all make a stroll in Horio unforgettable.
Panagia Pantanassa
The island’s cathedral, Panagia Pantanassa – Holy Cross, is located in Kastro Square, in Hora, Sikinos. The church with its blue dome is dated to 1787 and inside, of special interest is the wood carved iconostasis, together with the post-Byzantine icons of the Cretan School. According to legend, the icon left Crete and reached Sikinos without the accompanying oil lamp going out.
Monastery: Zoodochos Pigi
The impressive Monastery of Zoodochos Pigi is built on the hill above Kastro and has a magical view of both the sea and nearly all of Sikinos. The Monastery was built in 1690, it was a monastery for women and for very many years it was the only refuge for the inhabitants from pirates’ raids, hence its shape of a castle with a high, exterior wall. The Monastery can be visited during afternoon hours.
Panagia Pantohara
Perhaps he had never visited Sikinos, but Odysseus Elytis linked his name with this small Aegean Sea island. Furthermore,the little church above Kastro was built in his honour after his death, after he himself had requested this before dying. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary of Pantohara and was founded in 2001. With its view of the sea and the refreshing breeze that always blows, it reminds us of the poet’s lines: «The Virgin Holy held the sea in her embrace. Cradling Sikinos isle and Amorgos and her other children».
The Episkopi
A monument that is rare in Greece, is located inland on Sikinos. The Episkopi is a burial memorial of the Roman era (it is dated to the 3rd century BC), its underground arched crypts also confirm this. It was initially believed to be the temple of Apollo Pythios but it was proved that the structure’s architecture resembled that of a Roman mausoleum. Many centuries later, the monument was turned into a christian church with dome but its initial form and later interventions are visible today. Maintenance works of the Episkopi are taking place now.
S.Georgios Beach
S.Georgios beach is among the most crowded, as much due to its easy access (tarmac road) as its sandy beach and the shade provided by trees. Beside the beach there is a taverna for food and other necessities.
