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Modern Description: The northern tip of Siphnos is surveyed by no less than six ancient towers, none now surviving to more than a few courses of masonry. Their density underscores the importance of protecting the couple of harbours at Cherónisos and Vroulídia which are the first safe landfalls on the island for boats coming from the north. Cherónisos (13.5 km) is a remarkably protected harbour even in the stormiest conditions, large enough and deep enough to accommodate several craft. Even though there is no spring, a small settlement still survives with a good fish taverna, a cluster of fishermen's dwellings (a couple of which are older, stone houses) and a church, in an attractive setting around a creek of placid water. Exposed on the summit of the promontory to the north (15 minutes by foot) is the small hermitage monastery of Aghios Giorgios, served by a cistern, probably of ancient construction, to its south. Slightly to the east, at the highest point, is the circular outline of the island's northernmost ancient watchtower standing only to two courses of masonry, between rocks, sea and sky.

Info: McGilchrist's Greek Islands

(From McGilchrist’s Greek Islands, © Nigel McGilchrist 2010, excerpted with his gracious permission. Click for the books)

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