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.
