Discover Ágios Kírykos

An island capital with its own character

Ágios Kírykos is the capital of Ikaria and a place with a clearly recognisable historic character. Locals also call it Agios. Most of the island’s public services, schools and hospital are located here. If you’re looking for a holiday apartment, this gives you a useful starting point: Agios Kirykos is the island’s capital, while your other considerations may depend on whether you want to focus mainly on the town or on different aspects of the island.

Agios Kirykos was established in the 16th or 17th century. Colourful neoclassical buildings and narrow traditional streets shape the town’s appearance. The church of Agios Nikolaos, the oldest church in the old settlement, stands in the central square. Another square near the port features a marble monument to Ikarian heroes, with a fountain at its base. The squares, streets and church each offer a different way to become familiar with the town’s history.

Museums and traces of history

The Archaeological Museum of Agios Kirykos has galleries for its archaeological collection and temporary exhibitions. Finds from the Archaic and Classical periods include pottery, jugs, tools, coins and everyday objects. On Ikaria, the museum is housed in a neoclassical building that formerly served as the area’s secondary school and was later designated a protected monument. The collection also includes finds relating to the history of Ikaria and its inhabitants, from the Neolithic period (6800–3800 BC) to Roman times.

The Folklore Museum of Agios Kirykos is housed in the town’s former cultural centre, near the central hospital. Islanders donated exhibits that illustrate everyday life, war relics and events from antiquity to the present day. Together, the archaeological and folklore collections offer different perspectives: one focuses on finds and long periods of history, the other on everyday life and events. The municipal Asclepius Spa Center is opposite the police station.

Agios Kirykos in your island itinerary

For travel-planning purposes, the island’s airport is at the eastern end, near the village of Faros, about 12 kilometres from the island capital of Agios Kirykos. Ikaria has two main ports, one on the north coast and one on the south coast. These details help you place the capital in the context of the island; they are not a substitute for specific travel planning.

More things to do on Ikaria

On Ikaria, a hiking trail runs through the Halari Gorge. Cycling is possible all over the island, especially mountain biking, and Ikaria is also suitable for surfing. These activities add active island experiences to a stay in the capital.

Ikaria’s traditions and landscapes also offer other themes to consider when planning your trip. Villages hold festivals throughout the year for religious and some non-religious holidays; dates may vary. Visitors can sample a variety of wines on Ikaria and learn more about how they are made at four wineries. Check availability before visiting. The island’s thermal springs are located mainly on the southeast and northeast coasts. From Therma, a path leads to the still-used Loumakia thermal spring; the ruins of the ancient spa town of Thermae lie east of the present-day village of Therma. This makes it possible to combine cultural discoveries in Agios Kirykos with a wide range of island interests, without following a single set travel pace.

Discover more destinations: Magganitis, Fourni, Ikaria, Armenistís, Gialiskarion.

Go to the main travel overview: Ikaria.