Imagine standing on a cliff, looking over the deep blue Aegean Sea. Feel the gentle breeze from the Mediterranean. In the far distance, white-washed buildings stand out on the rugged volcanic island. This is Santorini, a place famous for its white buildings and Cycladic style.
But why is everything in Santorini white? It’s a mix of being practical, keeping to traditions, and the island’s unique history.
The buildings in Santorini, such as those in Fira and Oia, were mostly made of dark volcanic stone. The island didn’t have much wood, so that’s what they used. Dark stone makes buildings strong. It stands up well over time1. Yet, dark stone absorbs the sun’s heat, warming the insides too much.
To solve this, locals whitewashed the buildings. White bounces the sunlight off, keeping things cooler in summer. It also looks great against the blue sky and sea. This practice has been passed down for generations, giving Santorini its special look1.
Whitewashing wasn’t just about making things pretty, though. In the early 20th century, there were disease threats. Whitewashing was done to help fight this. It made buildings seem cleaner and safer. This practice stands for health, purity, and new beginnings2.
White-washed homes are also a result of rules from the government. Back in 1967, all houses had to be blue and white, the Greek colors. Other colors disappeared, making white and blue the island’s signature look1. In 1974, the Greek government said all homes in Santorini must be white and blue. This made the unique style official1.
When you walk the narrow streets of Santorini, know there’s a lot behind the white look. It’s about adapting to the climate, keeping to traditions, and showing Greece’s beauty and connection with nature1.
The History and Practicality of White-Washed Houses
The tradition of white-washed houses in Santorini and the Cyclades goes way back. It started because there wasn’t a lot of wood on the Greek islands3. Locals used stone, mud, and volcanic cement to build their homes. But, these materials made houses very hot inside during summer3.
To make things cooler, people in Santorini and the Cyclades began whitewashing. Whitewashing is when you paint a house all white by mixing lime, water, and sea salt. This kept their houses much cooler.
Whitewashing wasn’t just about beating the heat. When diseases like cholera hit, whitewashed homes were seen as cleaner3. The white paint was thought to kill germs. So, by law, all buildings on the islands had to be white to stop diseases from spreading34.
The Greek islands are also famous for adding blue to their white houses. This wasn’t just for looks; there was a practical reason. People could easily buy and use blue loulaki powder. So, objects painted blue stayed clean longer. This is why you see so much white and blue there.
In 1967, Greece’s government ordered all buildings to be painted white and blue. They did this to show more love for their country and to bring in more tourists35. Since then, these colors have become the symbol of the Greek islands. They really draw in a lot of visitors every year3.
Even though the rules have eased up, many still paint their houses white and blue. This is because these colors are a big hit with tourists. White and blue homes capture the heart of the Greek islands. They are found everywhere from Santorini to Mykonos5.
The Significance of Blue Accents in Greek Island Design
White dominates the buildings in Santorini. But, blue doors, shutters, and domes bring charm to the landscape. Blue has a deep meaning in Greek island design.
Blue was chosen for doors and shutters because it was cheap and easy to find. This was perfect for fishermen and sailors. So, many island houses were painted blue, making them look special. Also, the government in Greece made a law in 1974. It said houses must be painted blue and white, showing the Greek flag’s colors6.
Blue isn’t just practical. It’s a sign of Greek pride. The Greek flag is blue and white. So, the color link strengthens the islanders’ love for their country. The blue was not only for looks. Greek housewives used a special blue to clean, making shutters and windows beautiful7.
Blue isn’t just pretty. It makes Greek islands stand out. The mix of white and blue is famous. It’s now a symbol of the Greek islands. People love the classic blue and white look when they visit67. No trip to Greece is complete without seeing the blue accents. It’s a must-see part of their beautiful architecture8.
Source Links
- Greek, White and Blue: Why Are the Buildings in Greece Painted White and Blue? — The Anthrotorian
- Santorini cave houses: Their wondrous evolving history
- Why are Santorini houses white and blue? – Charisma Suites – Luxury Suites in Oia, Santorini with Caldera viewCharisma Suites
- Why are Greek Island Homes Blue and White? | Elxis – At Home in Greece
- The story behind the white and blue – Ana Buzzalino
- White & Blue: The Iconic Colors of the Greek Islands
- Doors of Santorini Greece and the Cycladic Blue and White
- Blue i Style – Creating an Organized & Pretty, Happy Home!: {decorating with style} Greek Island Inspiration
