Koufonisia Architecture

Located in the Small Cyclades, the tiny Koufonisia is a complex of two heavenly islets that provide a prime example of Cycladic architecture.

Covering an overall surface of 5.7 square kilometers, Ano Koufonisi is the bigger of the two and boasts a single picturesque settlement that serves as its capital. Commonly known as Chora, this is a village with traditional whitewashed houses, cobblestone alleys and blue-domed churches that create a postcard-like setting.

The architecture of Koufonisia has been significantly influenced by the rocky, arid terrain, as the scarcity of wood imposed the construction of low buildings that followed the layout of the landscape rather than a carefully designed grid plan. Moreover, the orientation of the houses keeps them warm in winter and cool in summer, while their iconic white and blue colors are in perfect harmony with the foam of the waves and the bright hues of the Aegean sky. Of course, the white of the walls also serves a practical purpose, as it reflects the rays of the sun and keeps residences cool during the scorching summer months.

Visitors can enjoy their stay in one of the small hotels, which have respected the local architecture.

The second islet, Kato Koufonisi, is, by contrast, uninhabited. Travelers will only find a small tavern and a quaint chapel built on top of some ancient ruins.