Museums to Visit in Syros, Greece
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Syros is an island in the Cyclades group in the AegeanSea. The largest towns on the island are Ermoupoli, Ano Syros, and Vari. Ermoupoli is the capital of the island and the capital of the Cyclades. Syros is on the same ferry route as the islands of Mykonos and Tinos, so there are a lot of ferries that travel there even during the off-season. Restaurants on the island of Syros are top quality for a reasonable price. The island is home to a beautiful town hall designed by Ernst Ziller, archaeological sites, and a number of important monasteries.
When you’re in Syros, you will want to take in the museums. The island of Syros is full of history ready to be explored.
The Archaeological Museum of Syros
Housed in the Town Hall of Ermoupoli, the Archaeological Museum of Syros showcases objects found throughout the Cyclades. The museum was founded in 1834, making it one of the oldest museums in Greece. Four rooms display exhibits featuring items such as a 35 cm marble statuette of a female figure and other figures, a compass, utensils, weapons, tools, ceramics, sculptures, inscriptions, and other artifacts.
The Town Hall itself was built in 1876 (the museum moved into the building in 1899). It’s a unique building that was inspired by three different architectural styles. The first floor is Tuscan style, the second floor is Ionic style, and the towers are Corinthian. If you visit the Archaeological Museum, take time to explore the Town Hall as well.
The Museum of the Municipality of Ano Syros
The Museum of the Municipality of Ano Syros is located in the heart of the town. The museum is an exhibition og traditional professions including that of a barber, a tailor, a fisherman, a cobbler, and a carpenter. Objects and tools of the professsions are showcased. Also for viewing at the museum are household accessories, instruments, letters, historical documents, and other antique objects. This museum will give you an in depth view into the history of the island.
The Industrial Museum of Syros
Housed in 4 19th century buildings, the Industrial Museum of Syros was founded in 2000 in Ermoupoli. The Museum is also refered to as the Industrial Museum of Ermoupoli. The 4 buildings include: the Skagiopoieio Anairoysi, the Kornilaki Tannery, the Katsimanti Paint Factory, and the Velissaropoulou weaving mill. The museum showcases equipment and machinery, a collection of tools, textiles, digital audio, glass workshops, maps, artifacts from the Patrice steamship wreck, and much more. One of the most exciting exhibits is the first electric car, the Enfield 8000, that was constructed in Greece.
The Museum of Markos Vamvakaris
Markos Vamvakaris was a well-known and wonderful rebetiko singer, musician, and composer. He was born in Ano Syros where the museum is located. The museum is dedicated to his life and includes photographs and personal items. Anyone with a love for music and getting to know the people behind it will enjoy this experience.
The museums of Syros will transport you back in time and are definitely worth visiting!
Categorized in: About Syros, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
