Already a prominent port in the Aegean Sea during the early 19th century, roughly 100 years later Ermoupolis had grown into a fully urbanized town with considerable industrial activity. Its wealthy middle class built numerous stunning mansions in Ermoupolis and other parts of the island, including Della Grazia, Parakopi and Episkopio – popular summer retreats at the time – many of which can still be seen today. A fascinating, detailed presentation of the city’s history and development is on display at the Ermoupolis Industrial Museum.

The area of Ano Syros tells a different story. One of refugees fleeing from nearby islands and western Turkey to settle on Syros, integrating with the locals and defining the island’s daily life and culture. It is this story that is showcased at the Exhibition of Traditional Professions. The Markos Vamvakaris Museum pays tribute to rebetiko (Greek refugee blues) legend Vamvakaris, with many of his personal items on display. The rebetiko master was born on Syros but spent most of his life in Piraeus. Nevertheless, he frequently praised the beauty of the island in his songs.