Pyrgos

Hotels in Pyrgos (Pirgos), Santorini Island

It may surprise many tourists to know that this tiny village was formerly the island’s capital. It can be found just 8 km from the current capital of Fira and the hilltop location means that visitors can enjoy views of the entire island. With just 500 inhabitants today, it is truly a tranquil location for that get away from it all holiday. The Venetian castle marks the centre of the village and is surrounded by a variety of traditional Greek homes. As you move upwards towards the castle the houses are built much more closely together.

Something that is not in short supply in the village of Pyrgos (also known as Pirgos) is churches. Visitors can easily spend hours at a time looking at these beautiful old churches which include the church of Theotokaki which has frescoes and icons to see, the Agia Triada, the church of Metamorphosi tou Sotira and Agios Nikolaos. One of the most famous churches on the island is also within easy reach of Pyrgos. This is the Monastery of Prophitis Ilias which is a short journey of 4 km and can be reached on foot for visitors who are very active.

It is only in recent years that tourists have begun to visit Pyrgos and one of the reasons for this is that at Easter every year there are huge celebrations to mark the occasion. There is a procession on Good Friday and the village is decked out in small lights.

The location of the village also makes it ideal for seeing other parts of the island including Fira, the lively capital and tourist hot spots such as Perissa and Kamari where visitors can enjoy the beaches and beautiful clear waters. These areas are filled with shops and restaurants and visitors can sample traditional Greek fare, enjoy the views and simply relax.