Some may know of towers from fairy tales and fantasy worlds such as the “Lord of the Rings,” but they were also an important part of everyday life in the ancient and medieval Aegean. On Sifnos, in the heart of the Cyclades, towers were used as a vital form of communication between the local settlements and citadels across the island.

This age-old custom has been brought back to life in an annual event, now in its 19th year, co-organized by the Municipality of Sifnos and the island’s Cultural Association.

Hundreds of volunteers of all ages, stationed at 69 locations across the island, recreate the ancient practice of lighting signals, sending out messages of unity, optimism and hope. In an age of easy and instant communication via electronic devices (something that many take for granted), the event serves as a poignant reminder of the lengths pre-modern societies had to go to in order to communicate across long distances.   

The growing participation of volunteers, and the addition of more signals every year, is indicative of its increasing popularity among the island’s population. 

The ancient towers on Sifnos were connected to the island’s settlements and citadels, and were primarily used as beacons. Many had underground storage areas, keeping vital supplies for the local community. The towers functioned as an early warning system, warning the islanders about incoming pirate raids, which were rampant in the ancient and medieval Mediterranean.

Sifnos was recently ranked among the most historic places in the world, according to the international cultural tourism television outlet, 4k Heritage TV/Visiotel.

“Our history is our future, especially at a time when travel trends and people’s needs are changing. We preserve our traditions and timeless values and make sure to pass them on to the new generations and visitors to the island, making them all participants in Sifnos’ age-old culture,” said the island’s Mayor, Maria Nadali.

This article was previously published in Greek at kathimerini.gr.