Exploring the Timeless Charm of Ithaca's Buildings
The architecture of villages and their structures serves as a visual narrative, reflecting the historical, financial, and social tapestry of a place.
In Ithaca, the evolution of building styles, from the ancient periods influenced by Venetian and English eras, to the more recent adaptations, portrays a story of adaptation and resilience. Prior to the Venetian era, remnants of early habitation in Anoghi and Rizes reveal structures built from sturdy rectangular stone blocks, featuring single-room layouts with minimal openings.
During the Venetian period, a period marked by frequent pirate raids, inhabitants sought refuge in mountainous regions, constructing stone and wood dwellings with defensive features like thick walls, small windows, and concealed entrances. The layout varied among villages, reflecting both the diverse origins of settlers and the degree of community cohesion.
As the threat of piracy waned by the late 16th century, coastal settlements like Vathi emerged, characterized by more relaxed architectural planning. Influences from the Renaissance began to permeate building designs, introducing decorative elements like arches and balconies.
Under English rule, regulations in 1817 standardized building practices, ushering in neo-classical elements such as eaves and fascias. The layout typically comprised a ground floor for storage and an upper floor for living quarters, often with an attic bedroom. External walls were adorned with vibrant hues like ochre, red, and white.
In the 20th century, rectangular houses with tiled roofs became prevalent, with the ground floor often serving as a storage space or shopfront. Neoclassical influences persisted, particularly in the homes of the affluent, boasting intricate decorative features.
Tragically, the earthquakes of 1953 devastated many structures, leading to the reconstruction of more modest dwellings in a similar style but with reduced embellishments.
Today, legislation enacted in 1978 safeguards Ithaca’s architectural heritage, preserving its traditional aesthetic and limiting building height and materials. Through these measures, Ithaca’s buildings continue to serve as living monuments, narrating the island’s rich history and cultural identity.
- Ithaca Then and Now- Spiros Dendrinos Editions, Spyros X. Dendrinos – Alekos F. Kallinikos
- Thiaki: Historical development and Architecture – Second Gerasimos