Crowning the hill of Ano Syros, the Cathedral of St George (San Giorgio) is the seat of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Syros and one of the oldest churches on the island. The current building dates from the 17th century but the site has been sacred since the Venetian period. The approach — up a steep stepped lane through the medieval alleys of Ano Syros — is part of the experience.
The interior is modest compared to great Catholic cathedrals on the mainland, but it has genuine atmosphere: cool stone, votive candles, and the faint smell of incense. The terrace outside the cathedral gives panoramic views across Ermoupoli and the harbour, with the Orthodox church of Anastasis on the opposite hill making a natural counterpart. The two communities have co-existed peacefully on this small island for centuries, which is itself something worth reflecting on.