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Agios Andreas church in Sifnos

Agios Andreas is the name of one of the many churches on Sifnos, there are numerous, but Agios Andreas is a bit special. The church is located on top of a hill where there once was a really old town. Archaeologists believe that the town was built as early as in the 13th century B.C. They have also found remains of a younger city from the 8th century B.C. Perhaps it is not so much to see for a layman, but for the ones who are interested in archaeology it is for sure extremely engaging.

Archaeological excavations at the church of Agios Andreas on Sifnos.

The archaeological excavations are located at Agios Andreas church up on the top.

But it is not the excavation itself that make the hike (there is a road up as well) to Agios Andreas worth the effort, nor is it the church that attracts. No, instead it's the view from Agios Andreas that entitle every drop of sweat on the way up.

The road and path to the church of Agios Andreas on Sifnos.

The old donkey path that leads to Agios Andreas.

Agios Andreas church on Sifnos.

Agios Andreas church.

Excavations at Agios Andreas in Sifnos.

Parts of the ancient city at the church of Agios Andreas.

The ancient Mycenaean city on Sifnos is approximately 10,000 km2 in size.

The area is approximately 10,000 km2.

Map and information board about the archaeological excavations of Agios Andreas on Sifnos.

A map and information sign are available in the area.

The panorama view of the landscape is enchanting. Here, if anywhere, you see how beautiful it is on Sifnos. One can vaguely follow the old donkey tracks, one sees Apollonia with its suburbs, Kastro is shining white by the sea, Faros and Platys Gialos looks like tiny dollhouse villages and if you are lucky with the weather you can glimpse some of the neighbouring islands of Sifnos.

Hike to the church of Agios Andreas and the archaeological excavations in Sifnos.

The hike up to Agios Andreas is worth the effort.

View of Apollonia and Kastro from Agios Andreas church on Sifnos.

View from Agios Andreas. Apollonia to the left and Kastro to the right.

To get to Agios Andreas you drive towards Vathy, stop at the sign pointing towards the church, park and then walk slowly and methodically towards the top. It takes no more than 25 minutes to walk. Why not enjoy both lunch and views? Buy with you some cheese, some tomatoes and a half retsina and the day becomes a memory for life.

Along the road between the path to Agios Andreas and Vathy is a cool cave. I have tried to find information about the cave, but have been unsuccessful. The cave is well signposted, but there is no cave on Sifnos with that name. It is very strange.

Spilaiofarango cave between Agios Andreas and Vathy on Sifnos.