Sifnos TRADITION
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PhotoSifnian architecture presents several differences from the rest of the Cyclades. Its more elaborate snow-white houses are adorned with decorated chimneys. "Flari" are residences with a spacious room which looks to the sun, as well as a bedroom and a kitchen connected to each other with openings. The houses, white-washed narrow alleyways, countless staircases, windmills and the blue domes of the chapels compose a lovely picture. Another characteristic of Sifnos is its white towers with the triangular decorations in gullies or mansion's farmland, or on rock tops. Even in ancient years, Sifnians knew about the richness of their island in aluminium deposits. They exploited it by creating earthenware, decorations and statuettes. They gradually became better and better and their skill passed from father to son. The potters, or "tsikalades", left their homes and emigrated to neighbouring islands and Athens, where one can admire wonderful samples of their art. Sifnians have remained simple people despite the fact that their island enjoyed great prosperity and wealth. They keep their tradition alive in arts as well as at the festivals. Their feasts are very boisterous with impromptu songs and local dances. In the carnival, they dance "Kir' Vorias" (Mr North Wind), a way of thanking God for the end of winter. In February, they celebrate the "Lolopanigiro" (Crazy Feast), which goes back to paganistic times.


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