Pyrgos Village

Overview

Pyrgos Kallistis is a medieval hilltop village at the geographic center of Santorini, crowned by the ruins of a Venetian kasteli (castle). Its concentric streets spiral upward around the fortified hill, creating a labyrinthine layout that predates the tourist era and offers some of the widest panoramic views of the entire island.

Highlights

• Kasteli ruins: The 13th-century Venetian castle at the summit with 360-degree views of the caldera, sea, and countryside.
• Traditional architecture: Intact medieval street pattern with barrel-vaulted passages, arched doorways, and stone-built houses.
• Church cluster: Over 30 small churches and chapels dot the village, including the blue-domed Theotokaki church.

History

Pyrgos was the administrative capital of Santorini until 1800 and its most populated settlement. The kasteli was built by the Venetians in the 13th century as one of five defensive fortresses on the island. After the capital moved to Fira, Pyrgos declined but was never abandoned, preserving its medieval character more authentically than the rebuilt caldera villages.

Visitor Tips

• Tip 1: Visit during the Easter Holy Week when the village's 33 churches hold candlelit processions — one of Greece's most atmospheric traditions.
• Tip 2: Climb to the kasteli for arguably the best sunrise viewpoint on Santorini.
• Duration: 1–1.5 hours.