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Village · Fira, Egeu Meridional
Pyrgos
Medieval village on top of a hill in the center of the island, with the Venetian kastelli, churches and spiral alleys; from there the road climbs to the monastery of Profitis Ilias, the highest point of Santorini.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Pyrgos
Pyrgos sits on a hill in the center of Santorini, about 8 km from Fira, and for a long time was the island’s administrative center. The village is arranged in circles around the kastelli, the 13th-century Venetian castle whose ruins are on the top. The alleys climb in a spiral among white houses, arches, small churches and painted doors, with fewer shops and fewer visitors than the caldera edge.
From the top of the kastelli the view opens over the whole island: the surrounding vineyards, the caldera to the west and the beaches to the east. At Orthodox Easter the alleys and roofs are illuminated with burning cans on the night of Good Friday, a village tradition.
From Pyrgos the road leads to the monastery of Profitis Ilias, on the summit of the mountain of the same name, at 567 metres, the highest point of Santorini. The monastery was founded in 1711 by two monk brothers from the village and still houses a small community. Visits usually are limited to the courtyard and the church, with dress rules and specific opening times; check before you go up. The road is narrow and winding, and there is a trail of about 2.5 km from Pyrgos square.
Around the village there are several wineries open to visitors, making Pyrgos a good spot for a late afternoon among vines and views.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
1 to 2 hours in the village; add about an hour to go up to the monastery and back.
Best time
Late afternoon, when the heat eases and the light hits the white houses. The monastery has its own opening hours and may be closed on some days; check beforehand.
How to get there
KTEL buses from Fira pass Pyrgos on the lines to Perissa, in about 15 minutes. By car it’s about 8 km from Fira, with parking at the village entrance. There is no bus to the monastery.
Tip
Walk up to the kastelli through the alleys at a leisurely pace: the spiral route is part of the experience. For the monastery, wear clothing that covers shoulders and knees.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Pyrgos
What to see in Pyrgos?
The Venetian kastelli at the hilltop, the spiral alleys with churches and arches, island views and the surrounding wineries. The road up to the Mosteiro de Profitis Ilias starts there.
Can you visit the Mosteiro de Profitis Ilias?
Generally yes—you can visit the courtyard and the church, wearing clothing that covers shoulders and knees. Hours vary and the monastery may be closed on some days; check before you go.
Is Pyrgos far from Fira?
No. It's about 8 km, 15 minutes by bus or car.