Reg.Nr. GR/X/3-1979

Oia, village renewal scheme

The traditional seefarer village of Oia was threatened by decay caused both by population decline, which left many building abandoned, and by the 1956 earthquake. The architectural peculiarity of Oia is that many of the old buildings are dug into the volcanic rock. In the past ...
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Project details

Title:Oia, village renewal scheme
Entr. year: 1979
Result:Diploma
Country: Greece
Town: Oia, Santorini
Category type: architectural heritage
Notes:* At time of submission project still ongoing * Protection of the Agricultural Heritage in Rural Areas
Building type/ Project type: Urban renewal/design - Village renewal/design
Former use:Village
Actual use:Historic village with a huge tourism industry, a well developed infrastructure and a resident population, cultural and tourist attraction
Built: 15th-16th century
Architect / Proj.leader: P. Bozineki - N. Agriantonis, Architects
The Jury's citation: "For the superb rehabilitation of the old village of Oia to form a tourist area, while preserving its existing character"
GPS:36°27'42.6"N 25°22'31.1"E

Description:
The traditional seefarer village of Oia was threatened by decay caused both by population decline, which left many building abandoned, and by the 1956 earthquake. The architectural peculiarity of Oia is that many of the old buildings are dug into the volcanic rock. In the past the cave houses were used by sailors and fishermen, hence many of them are close to the sea. Thanks to a programme of National Tourist Organisation of Greece (NTOG) 60 typical houses were converted for tourism purposes. The work included restoration, rebuilding in local style and introduction of modern facilities turning small houses into guest houses. Local masons and traditional building materials were used.