Phryctoriae 2025: The Cyclades Communicate and Highlight Their Shared Heritage

Santorini to Participate from Five Beacon Towers

The Phryctoriae were an ancient Greek system of optical communication using beacon towers – lit torches (phryctoi) – to transmit messages across great distances. These towers were strategically placed on mountaintops to ensure visibility from one to the next.

When the first torch was lit, it was quickly followed by the others in succession, allowing the message to be relayed across the region. The first known use of this system dates back to Homeric times, when news of Troy’s fall reached Mycenae within hours through such a relay.

On the evening of Sunday, June 8, at 19:00, twelve islands of the Cyclades will once again revive this ancient custom. The event is organized by the Municipality of Sifnos and the Cultural Association of Sifnos. Along with Sifnos, the participating islands are Anafi, Kea, Kythnos, Milos, Naxos, Paros, Santorini, Serifos, Sikinos, Syros, and Tinos. Together, they will send a powerful message of unity while celebrating their common cultural heritage.

Santorini will take part in this year’s revival from five historical locations: the Kastelia (fortified settlements) of Oia, Imerovigli, Pyrgos, Akrotiri, and Emporeio.

“We invite you to be part of this unique experience, to feel the heartbeat of our shared history, and witness how the flames of the Phryctoriae continue to unite the Cyclades,” reads the announcement from the Municipality of Thira. “Come and help light up the peaks of Santorini, sending a message of unity and remembrance across the Aegean.”