10+1 things you must know about the City Hall of Hermoupolis on Miaouli Square:
This magnificent building, the biggest and certainly one of the most architecturally important Town Halls in Greece, has three floors on the side overlooking the square and two floors in the rear due to the ground’s incline. It was built in 1876 under the supervision of German-Bavarian architect Ernst Ziller (he is the man behind the Academy of Athens and the Apollo Municipal Theatre of Patra) and inaugurated in 1898. Its design draws architecturally on three different styles: Tuscan, Ionic, and Corinthian. The building’s outstanding features include a princely staircase 15.5 meters high, two wings with five vertical window axes right and left, towers, a marble pediment and portraits of former Syros mayors. The second floor is of Ionic style and the towers are of Korinthian style. The central part is entirely made of marble and you will see an inscription explaining that the Municipality of Hermes erected this building in the honor of mayor Vafiadakis. On the left of the staircase, there is the bust of Mayor Vafiadakis (1804-1898). The hall of the municipal council meetings is of particular interest: In the lobby there are the portraits of all Mayors, in the room you will see oil paintings of King George I (1864-1912) and Queen Olga, by artist Prosalentis. In 1998 the building was renovated, the glass roof was reconstructed and artist Anna Vassilaki used original designs by Ziller to paint the walls of the building. The Town Hall also hosts the Archaeological Museum of Syros, the Court of Law and some other public services. By a ministerial decree of 1980, it has been identified as a work of art (masterpiece).
+1: inside the City Hall you will also find a vintage carriage that belonged to Princess Sissi (the Empress Elisabeth of Austria, image 5) and the coat of arms of the city of...
Read moreErmoupolis City Hall - A Cycladic Masterpiece The Ermoupolis City Hall is not just a municipal building; it is the breathtaking architectural crown jewel of Syros and one of the most magnificent neoclassical structures in all of Greece. Standing proudly at the head of Miaouli Square, it dominates the cityscape and leaves an indelible impression on every visitor.
Architectural Grandeur, Designed by the famous German architect Ernst Ziller, the City Hall is a testament to the prosperity and importance of Ermoupolis in the 19th century. Its sheer size and imposing facade, constructed with marble from Mount Penteli (the same marble used for the Parthenon), command immediate attention. The massive staircase leading up to the main entrance is iconic and provides a perfect photo opportunity. The combination of its Renaissance-inspired elements and the sheer scale makes it feel more like a palace than a local government office.
A Vibrant Heart, The building perfectly frames Miaouli Square, one of the most beautiful squares in Greece. Even if you don't go inside, simply admiring the building from the square and soaking in the atmosphere is a highlight of any trip to Syros. The square is the vibrant social heart of the town, constantly buzzing with life, cafés, and cultural events.
Must-See Interior, While the exterior is stunning, many reviews encourage visitors to step inside and explore the opulent interior. Highlights include the main staircase, the beautifully preserved council chambers, and the sense of history that permeates the halls. It is a striking representation of the neoclassical period and showcases the island's rich heritage.
Visiting Ermoupolis City Hall is essential for anyone exploring Syros. It is a spectacular piece of architecture that embodies the dignity and history of this beautiful...
Read moreThe Syros Town Hall is, without a doubt, one of the most impressive and beautiful Town Halls in all of Greece, dominating the magnificent Miaouli Square. Designed by the legendary German architect Ernst Ziller, its construction began in 1876 and was completed around 1891-1898, symbolizing the immense wealth and cultural peak of Ermoupoli in the 19th century. The neoclassical design is stunning, blending Tuscan, Ionic, and Corinthian styles across its facade. However, the interior is where the architectural genius truly shines. The building features two atria, but the main focal point is the monumental internal staircase. This majestic suspended staircase is an engineering marvel, and looking up, you see it's covered by a beautiful glass roof (skylight), which floods the entire central hall with natural light. It's a truly brilliant design feature. The building also houses the Archaeological Museum of Syros in its ground floor. A true gem and a...
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