The island of Syros is located 40 minutes to the west of Mykonos by ferry. It attracts relatively few tourists and is chiefly famous for its shipping companies, which boomed after the Greek War of Independence. Ermoupoli, its capital, saw its biggest growth during the mid-1800s and became one of the largest cities in Greece. Today, it is known as an architectural jewel for its neoclassical marble mansions and grand squares. Syros is a culturally vibrant place suitable for those who want to avoid the glitz of Mykonos and the crowds of Santorini. Lying at the center of the Cyclades, it is connected by ferry to many islands, including Naxos and Crete; the airport offers flights to and from Athens.