Published on •Updated
Andros’s neoclassical mansions are the architectural hallmark of Chora. Most of them were built during the era of the island’s great maritime boom, roughly 130 to 140 years ago.
Beyond economic prosperity, these stately homes chart the evolution of the island’s society and economy. They feature neoclassical pediments, symmetrical façades, elaborate marble balconies and carved front doors, dominated by local stone and the renowned Andros marble.
“Neoclassicism reaches Andros as an architectural movement at the end of the 19th century and gradually transforms a Cycladic settlement into a new town. They adopt neoclassical models and build large houses, driven mainly by the shipowners, the shipping circles of Andros. They draw inspiration and examples from other cities, especially Syros, Piraeus and Athens, but also from cities abroad. So they want to bring back to Andros what they see in other places,” architect and researcher Nikos Vasilopoulos told Euronews.
The Goulandris and Embirikos families have left an indelible mark on the island’s maritime and cultural heritage. In particular, through their choices and generous financial contributions, the Embirikos family largely defined the character and present-day image of Chora.
“The Embirikos family’s view that the settlement should become a fully fledged town is reflected above all in the main square. For that reason they bought up plots, laid out the square and built a combined hospital and care home. They believed such an institution had to exist. They imagined that the town would continue to grow and that the island’s maritime society would keep evolving. What is more, the hospital and care home do not have the look of an institution, because they have railings rather than a solid wall. So those inside can see those outside and those outside can see in, ensuring at least visual contact.” Vasilopoulos explains.
If visitors want to learn more about Chora’s neoclassical houses, as well as about accommodation, beaches, transport and food, the island now has a new tool. It is called Andros AI.
The service allows travellers and locals to submit questions and receive instant answers and information.
“Andros AI is the first artificial-intelligence guide and assistant created for a destination in Greece. In essence, it is a chat service where anyone can ask anything about the island, whether they are already here or planning a visit. Users can obtain reliable, authoritative information: where to stay, what to visit, and anything they might need during their time at the destination,” Ioannis Pitakidis, founder of andros-guide.gr and the company Hype², told Euronews.
For would-be visitors, Andros AI means fewer phone calls, emails and online searches. The island is setting a course that other popular tourist destinations are likely to follow soon.
“Artificial intelligence will play a very significant role in changing how tourism operates worldwide. Greece, which is above all a tourism-driven country, will, I believe, have to – and will be compelled to – adopt this kind of technology in order to move into the future,” according to Pitakidis.
Andros is the northernmost and second-largest island in the Cyclades, after Naxos. It stands out for its maritime tradition, architectural heritage and unique natural environment.
Unlike the typical Cycladic landscape, the island boasts lush vegetation, running water and natural springs.
Read the full article here
