Santorini is host to some of the world’s most beautiful villages and it’s no secret why. Picturesque Greek architecture, jutting out over the red volcanic cliffs, looking down onto the crystal clear waters of the Aegean Sea – the entire island and its traditional settlements are like a painting. But none are more beautiful than the old walled city of Pyrgos.
Get lost in the beautiful streets of Pyrgos!
Perched high on a mountaintop, with sweeping views of the entire island, Pyrgos will dazzle you with its authenticity. Enjoy strolling through the winding walking streets, up the steep cobblestone steps, and secret passageways that lead you into the city.
Pyrgos is a traditional Fortress Settlement of the Cyclades and was Santorini’s capital in the mid 18th century. You’ll take a step back in time when exploring this incredible city with its white washed houses with colorful doors, the impressively massive blue domed churches, and the old ruins of the castle.
Stop to admire one of the many magnificent churches in the city
Agia Theodosia Church is one of the most beautiful within the city walls. Originally built in 1639, the church was demolished by the massive earthquake of 1956. The building that sits on the site now was built in 1965 and encompasses the stunning cycladic architecture of Santorini.
You’ll find a few tourists shops and art galleries along the way, as well as a couple of cafés. Enjoy a glass of wine or two from the veranda but make sure you don’t eat, as you’re only minutes away from the best restaurant on the island.
When you’re through admiring the mystic nature of the city, take a taxi down to Exo Gonia (just a short five minute drive from Pyrgos) to have a meal at the legendary Metaxi Mas Taverna.
Try the lamb and couscous topped with mint and yogurt sauce!
This restaurant is well known to locals and is an absolute must try for tourists. Metaxi Mas is a quaint Santorini/Cretan-style restaurant located just off the beaten path behind the Church of Agios on the main road to Exo Gonia. It offers two outdoor patios with plenty of tables and stunning views of the backside of the island. Be sure to make a reservation a day ahead of time during the summer months.
The restaurant staff offer you complimentary raki, a local unsweetened anise flavored alcoholic drink, olives, cheese and rusk bread. Be careful to save room for the fried feta with honey and sesame seeds, broccoli & cheese soufflé and white Santorini baked eggplant with local tomatoes and feta. If you’ve planned your day right, and find yourself here at dinner, the lamb over couscous with mint and yoghurt sauce is to die for. (They only serve this dish after 17:00hr)
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This restaurant is not to be missed!
Metaxi Mas should be one of the first restaurants on your list to visit so you give yourself time to go again. Tourists and locals alike continue to rave about the delectable dishes this creative taverna. The views are spectacular from the restaurant, the food is some of the best on the island, and eating dinner at Metaxi Mas is a perfect way to end a day full of discovery.
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