Pyrgos of Tinos

Pyrgos: The Marble Village of Tinos

Pyrgos, the largest village of Tinos, is a declared traditional settlement and is one of the most picturesque destinations in the Cyclades. Its name comes from the Venetian tower built in the 16th century for the defense of the area. In the past, the village was called Panormos, a name that today designates the bay of the same name.

Pyrgos experienced great development during the 18th and 19th centuries, mainly due to shipping and marble craftsmanship. The exploitation of the white and characteristic green marble of Tinos and the great tradition of marble craftsmanship made the village evolve into a leading artistic center, highlighting many of the most important Greek artists, such as the sculptors Giannoulis Chalepas, Dimitrios Filippotis, Giannis Voulgaris, Loukas Doukas and the painter Nikiforos Lytras.

Pyrgos is a living museum, with impressive marble creations. Pedestrian streets, municipal fountains, and even a bus stop are made of marble! The village square, with its centuries-old plane tree and marble fountain, is an ideal spot for relaxation. The village’s churches, Agios Nikolaos and Agios Dimitrios, feature exquisite marble decoration. The cemetery resembles a museum of marble sculpture, while the School of Fine Arts continues the tradition of marble with students from all over the world. A visit to Pyrgos offers a unique opportunity to learn about the rich artistic heritage of Tinos and its importance in the development of modern Greek art.