The architecture of Naxos is as rich and varied as the island’s history, with influences ranging from ancient Greek to Venetian. Unlike many of its Cycladic counterparts, the buildings in Naxos Town (also known as Chora) do not follow the typical architectural style associated with the islands. However, there are notable characteristics that reflect the island’s unique blend of history and function, shaped by its strategic location and turbulent past.
At first glance, the buildings of Naxos might appear less simplistic compared to other Cycladic islands like Mykonos or Santorini. Nevertheless, the structures in the town retain key elements that mark their distinctiveness. These elements include a defensive layout, built atop a hill that provides a natural acropolis, offering a sense of protection to the residents. This strategic positioning reflects the historical significance of the town, which was once a major stronghold in the Aegean. The density of the buildings, a result of this defensive nature, coupled with the fortifications that surround the town, give Chora a compact, almost fortified feel.
Naxos, unlike many other islands in the Cyclades, has written records of its architectural history, particularly regarding the construction of its Kastro (castle). These documents reveal that the town was carefully planned, with the settlement designed and constructed by an engineer, possibly under the direction of the Venetian rulers who established the town. In contrast to the more instinctive, organic growth of towns on other Cycladic islands, Naxos exhibits a more structured approach to urban planning. The town was systematically divided into plots, each designated for specific use or by individual owners, creating an early example of planned architecture in the region.
Naxos Town: A Fortress on the Hill
The fortified part of Naxos Town, perched approximately 30 meters above sea level, holds deep historical significance. Archaeological remains in the area suggest that this part of the island was inhabited even during ancient times, with remnants of older buildings incorporated into the walls and structure of the Kastro. The Kastro itself is a pentagonal walled structure with five defensive towers, one at each corner, and three main gates. These walls were not just fortifications; they were the very foundations upon which the town grew.
The medieval layout of Naxos Town was established by the Venetian Duke Marco Sanudo after he conquered the island in 1207 AD. His conquest included the seizure of seventeen Aegean islands, which he ruled as Duke. After taking control, Sanudo set about fortifying Naxos by building the Kastro and surrounding it with defensive walls. He then allocated parcels of land to his noblemen and officers, who constructed their own towers near the ducal tower. Thus, the fortifications and the settlement were built simultaneously, creating a stronghold that was as much a military fortress as it was a vibrant community.
The heart of this fortified settlement is the central square, which lies in the middle of the Kastro. This square is surrounded by important structures, including the Catholic church and the central tower, which remains the highest and most fortified point of the town. Although only a small section of the tower survives today, it once stood as a prominent symbol of power and defense. Two of the original gates remain intact, one opening onto Pradouna Square, and the other on the northwestern side, where an old wooden door still stands as a testament to the town’s historic defenses.
Symbols of Venetian power are evident in the Catholic church, the Catholic monastery of Agios Antonios, the Capuchin monastery, and the Ursuline convent, which still stand in the Kastro. These religious buildings, along with the school of commerce and administrative offices that were established within the fortifications, reflect the influence of the Venetian rulers. The Kastro, in this sense, was not only a military and residential stronghold, but also an administrative, educational, and religious center that thrived during the Venetian era.
The Expansion Beyond the Kastro: A Growing Town
As the population of Naxos increased and the town expanded, the areas outside the Kastro began to develop. Islanders who came under the Duke’s rule settled in these new districts, which grew around the notional center of the Kastro. These areas, such as Burgos and Agora, were initially less organized in their layout but still followed a radial pattern. The buildings in these districts gradually spread outward, forming a network of interconnected homes that provided both defense and a sense of community. Many of the gates that once served as entry points into these districts remain today, such as those in Burgos and Agora.
In addition to the original Greek inhabitants, other groups began to settle in Naxos over time. Jews who sought refuge on the island established themselves in districts like Grotta and Fountana, while Cretans and refugees from Asia Minor founded the district of Neo Chorio. Each of these communities contributed to the architectural diversity of the town, with their own distinct styles and building traditions. These multicultural influences are still visible in the town’s architecture today.
The Architecture of Naxos Today
The architecture of Naxos continues to reflect the island’s complex and diverse history. From the medieval fortifications of the Kastro to the more traditional Cycladic houses that line the streets outside, Naxos’ buildings are a testament to its rich cultural heritage. Many of the houses within the Kastro have been restored and preserved, while newer buildings outside the walls exhibit the island’s ongoing development.
One of the most striking features of Naxian architecture is the integration of natural materials into the building process. The stone from the island’s ancient ruins, combined with local marble and timber, forms the structural backbone of many buildings. This use of local materials not only grounds the architecture in its environment but also pays homage to the island’s long-standing relationship with its landscape.
Today, visitors can explore Naxos Town and discover its architectural treasures, from the majestic Kastro to the winding alleys and charming whitewashed houses that characterize the Chora. The town’s architecture remains a living, breathing reflection of Naxos’ rich history, offering a glimpse into the past while continuing to evolve in the present.
The architecture of Naxos is a beautiful and intricate blend of historical influences, from the ancient Greek and Venetian periods to more modern developments. The island’s unique architectural style offers a fascinating glimpse into its past, with fortifications and carefully planned urban layouts standing as enduring symbols of its strategic importance in the Aegean. Whether wandering the medieval streets of the Kastro or exploring the more modern districts outside its walls, visitors to Naxos are bound to be captivated by the island’s architectural charm and its ability to seamlessly combine history with contemporary life.