The Neoclassical Marvels of Syros: Bridging History and Culture

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The Neoclassical Marvels of Syros: Bridging History and Culture

New Life in Old Shells

Today, the former home of Chian merchant and politician Nikolaos Prasakakis houses the Cyclades Chamber of Commerce, the residence of industrialist Velissaropoulos serves as the headquarters of the Cyclades Labor Center, and the mansion of Smyrna-born merchant Eustratios Petritzis is home to the Lyceum of Greek Women in Syros. Across Ermoupolis, dozens of buildings are being adapted to modern uses, embodying an idea expressed in the book The Urban Planning of Ermoupolis (2003), edited by Iosif and Ioulia Stefanou: “It has become clear that, beyond their physical shells, the architectural heritage of a place—and its role in shaping its identity—also relies on maintaining the functional use of its buildings. Contemporary approaches are founded on a balanced triad: shell, use, and user. This balance helps dissolve the long-standing polarization between preservation and development. To sustain our architectural heritage, it must remain alive—not fossilized relics or poor imitations.”

A shining example of this principle is the Historical Museum of Ermoupolis, which opened its doors to the public this past summer. The restoration of the Rethymni Mansion, built in 1840, took over 30 years. Through exhibits donated by local families, the museum showcases the history and folklore of the city, with a special focus on the high bourgeoisie that shaped Ermoupolis from the 19th to the early 20th century. The museum aspires to be a living cultural hub, hosting events and activities throughout the year to foster a deeper connection between the local community and its history.

HERMeS, a nonprofit organization dedicated to cultural preservation, supports this vision by transforming its digital building registry into an educational tool. Both locals and visitors can discover the importance of conservation while exploring the stories of these historic buildings. The organization has launched a pilot program featuring QR codes on six of the city’s most significant buildings. These codes link to digital pages offering a wealth of historical information, interior photographs, and personal stories written by Syros residents. Soon, 100 buildings in Ermoupolis will have plaques with QR codes, providing visitors and locals with a deeper understanding of the architectural history that surrounds them.

At the Kois Mansion, visitors can use a tablet to explore the living room, admire the vibrant and intricate ceiling frescoes, and even select music on a vintage radio. “This isn’t a museum; it’s an experience of life as it once was,” says Stavros Kois. Each of Ermoupolis’ 1,290 neoclassical buildings holds countless fascinating stories. But above all, these buildings must remain standing, preserving their elegance and grandeur, so that we can continue to hear their tales and create new ones.

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