Palazzo Santa Maria: Historic luxury on the island of Syros

By Ndéla Faye | Photos: Palazzo Santa Maria

On the Greek island of Syros, a 19th century mansion has been carefully restored into a small luxury hotel centred on history and design, and proudly offers exquisite service. The mansion hotel offers guests an exceptional stay steeped in history, just steps from the shimmering shores of the Aegean Sea.

Palazzo Santa Maria is a neoclassical mansion on the Greek island of Syros, now operating as a small, adults-only luxury hotel for couples and solo travellers.

Syros is part of the Cyclades, a group of islands that also includes destinations such as Mykonos and Santorini. Its capital, Hermoupolis – also the administrative centre of the Cyclades – was once a major maritime and commercial hub, which continues to shape the island’s identity as a distinctly cosmopolitan destination steeped in history.

Palazzo Santa Maria: Historic luxury on the island of Syros

Built in 1874, the property features intricate frescoes and has been officially designated a monument by the Greek Ministry of Culture. The neoclassical mansion offers guests a direct connection to the island’s history, combined with contemporary luxury and modern comforts.

Recent renovations have been carried out with care, restraint and precision, preserving most of the original architectural features including original frescoes and structural details to maintain the building’s historical character, while subtly introducing modern comforts.

Palazzo Santa Maria: Historic luxury on the island of Syros

Breakfast is served in the lounge, a space dedicated to the island’s 19th century merchant marine heritage. The selection focuses on local flavours, including artisan cheeses, seasonal fruit, homemade specialities, freshly baked bread and traditional pies.

Each room has been designed to tell its own story, inspired by personalities directly or indirectly connected to Syros, such as the legendary 19th century French actress Sarah Bernhardt and the ballet dancers and choreographers who once stayed on the island. Several pieces of furniture in the rooms and suites were also once used by renowned celebrities, including Maria Callas, Marlon Brando and Frank Sinatra.

For owner and host Nicolas Roussos, Palazzo Santa Maria is a deeply personal project. “This is the culmination of a lifelong dream and commitment to hospitality. I want to preserve the essence of the past while offering unforgettable luxury hotel experiences for our visitors,” he says.

That commitment is perhaps most tangible in the hotel’s approach to service: discreet, attentive, drawing on Roussos’ five decades in international luxury hospitality.

The Apollon Theatre in Hermoupolis is one of Syros’ most significant landmarks. Photo: Apollon Theatre

Exploring enchanting Syros

The beaches of Syros are among the most appealing in the Cyclades, with a range of options for different types of travellers. Along the coastline, visitors can try a range of water sports, explore quieter coves and sandy stretches, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Aegean Sea.

Palazzo Santa Maria: Historic luxury on the island of Syros

Palazzo Santa Maria’s mansion is within walking distance of the island’s many bars, tavernas and restaurants as well as all the city’s key attractions. The main sights include the Hermoupolis Town Hall and the elegant Apollon Theatre – often described as a miniature La Scala.

The medieval settlement of Ano Syros and the Cathedral of Saint George – home to the oldest church organ in Greece – along with the neoclassical Orthodox Church of Saint Nicholas, reflect the island’s cultural diversity and its long history of coexistence between Catholic and Orthodox communities.

The 19th century mansion’s rooms have each been inspired by personalities directly or indirectly related to the island of Syros. | Palazzo Santa Maria: Historic luxury on the island of Syros

Archaeological sites such as Kastri and Chalandriani reveal Syros’ history, tracing it back as far as 2,800 BC. There is even a poetic thread connecting Syros to Greek antiquity: in the Odyssey, Homer refers to an island named Syriē, a prosperous land “beyond Ortygia.” Many scholars have long associated this place with modern-day Syros.

“Whether you are here to explore the rich cultural heritage of Hermoupolis or simply relax in a stunning setting, our mansion offers an unparalleled escape into a world of elegance and historical splendour,” the owner concludes.