Tilos Architecture

The architecture of Tilos impresses every visitor. The island has medieval castles, a Byzantine monastery, small churches, and Mikro Chorio – one of its abandoned settlements which has been declared a cultural monument for its historical and aesthetic significance.

The main village of Tilos, Livadia, features traditional Dodecanese architecture, characterized by whitewashed houses with flat roofs, wooden balconies, and stone-paved courtyards. Stone-built houses rest on the hillside beneath the ruins of an ancient settlement and a medieval castle, reflecting the island’s cultural heritage. The village’s architecture harmonizes with the natural landscape, offering a glimpse into the island’s rich past.
The village is also home to many significant monasteries and churches. The Church of Taxiarchis, with its impressive frescoes is a prime example of traditional monastic architecture.

The dominant architectural style in Megalo Chorio, the capital of Tilos, is Aegean, though it has deteriorated over the years. Visitors can still admire fantastic monuments, archaeological findings, numerous monasteries, and the ruins of the Medieval Castle above the settlement. The houses in Megalo Chorio are mostly built from local stone, featuring arched doorways, small windows to protect against strong winds, and narrow alleys that create a labyrinth-like layout. Walking along these paths, one can enjoy a fascinating view of the sea and the surrounding whitewashed neighborhoods.

One of the most intriguing sites in Tilos, closely linked to its architectural history, is the uninhabited Mikro Chorio – one of the many abandoned villages in the Greek islands. Established in the Middle Ages as a defensive settlement against pirate raids, today, it consists of remnants of an old village with narrow streets, stone houses, and impressive ruins. Despite its abandonment, its architecture remains a testament to the island’s past, with partially intact facades and arched entrances.

Tilos's architecture reflects its long and diverse history, influenced by Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman styles. Defensive structures, such as castle remains and fortified monasteries, showcase the island’s strategic importance in the Aegean. The island’s unique landscape, with its rocky hills and lush greenery, contrasts with the whitewashed cubic houses, creating a magical and picturesque scenery.

Visitors can enjoy their stay in many of the traditional hotels that have respected traditional architecture.