Pyrgos, also known as the ‘marble village’, is one of the largest, most beautiful villages of Tinos and the entire Cyclades archipelago. It is the place where many of the greatest Greek marble sculptors were born, and their legacy is evident in the entire village, as numerous houses, alleys, streets, and arches, manifest a distinct artistic flavour.
The decorative displays of the local drinking fountains and the marvelous churches are some of the village’s highlights, as well as its cemetery, which has been adorned throughout the ages with wonderful sculptures. In fact, it would not be an exaggeration to suggest that Pyrgos resembles an open-air marble art museum. Visitors can acquire more information about the art of sculpting by visiting the old house of Yannoulis Chalepas (1851-1938), probably the most famous contemporary Greek sculptor and a Pyrgos-native, which is open to the public and exhibits part of his work and other material.
Unsurprisingly, given its beauty and historic past, Pyrgos is a popular touristic destination, and home to many hotels, shops, restaurants, and cafes. Its main square, centered around a beautiful old plane tree is an ideal setting for a coffee or snack. The village is lively year-round, thanks to a vibrant local community and the School of Fine Arts, which is located here and draws on some of the country’s top aspiring sculptors to carry on the tradition.
