Syros History

Long associated with shipbuilding, industry, and commerce, an impression that still exists as you arrive by ferry to its somewhat industrial-looking harbor, Syros has never been, until very recently, particularly focused on the Cycladic tourist trade, as some of its more sweetly picturesque neighbors.  It has seemed to be quite content to go its separate way, remaining closely tied to its historical roots.  And why not!  Industry has been flourishing on Syros since the 1800s; the island was a center of commerce, a major shipping port, and the administrative capital of the Cyclades.  In the early 1900s this small island supported a population of more than 30,000, with nearly 19,000 inhabitants living in the small capital of Ermoupolis, making it the 6th largest city in Greece.  Its grandeur and economic prosperity were at an all-time high, as can still be seen today, reflected by the many beautiful neoclassical buildings and old mansions located throughout the capital.

But changes came to take place at the end of the 19th century.  The island lost its geographical significance with the opening of the Corinth Canal, and the shift of shipping to the new port of Piraeus on the southern mainland of Greece.  Slowly over time and well into the 20th century, the island’s industries, especially textiles, began to close as a result of international competition.  A disastrous period of occupation during World War II followed.

From the end of the war and to the present, the rejuvenation of the island must certainly be credited to its hardworking people and their abilities to turn misfortune into something more positive.  Relying on farming, fishing, light industry, and shipping repairs, the island once again began to flourish; and for the last quarter-century, the island has tried hard to shed its working class label and has campaigned diligently for a share of the tourist industry.  They’ve done very well in this regard, quite simply because the island has so much to offer!