Located among the pine trees above the western side of Hydra’s harbor, the three-story Giorgios and Pavlos Koundouriotis Mansion houses heirlooms belonging to the Koundouriotis family and exhibitions about Hydra’s role in the Greek War of Independence and its nautical heritage. The manor complex consists of three buildings and a garden and is operated by the Greek Ministry of Culture as the Kountouriotis Family Museum and the Post-Byzantine Art and History Museum of Hydra.

Stone windmills, some in ruins, dot the hillsides, and the town and surrounding villages are home to more than 350 churches and chapels. Hydra’s status as a national historic landmark protects its unique and beautiful architecture. Any new buildings must stay in keeping with the island’s historic architectural style, using authentic colors and maintaining the traditional Hydriot character. As a result, no modern building developments (high-rise apartments, hotel complexes) can spoil Hydra’s traditional atmosphere. In addition to cars and mopeds, neon signs have been banned. Hydra’s architecture, which includes simple houses as well as grand manors, is unique to the island.

Mansions (Archontika)

The mansions and manors of Hydra have a history and architecture unique to the island. As most of these structures are still owned by private families, many are not open to the public. Some, however, now house public services are open to visitors.

Located on the eastern side of Hydra’s port next to the Hydra Historic Archives and Museum and built between 1780 and 1810, the Tsamados Mansion houses the National Merchant Marine School, which has operated continuously since its founding in 1749. In 1930, the school moved to its current location.

Anastasios Tsamados, a heroic admiral, was killed during the Greek Revolution (1821). The manor was later home to Athanasios Koulouras, a benefactor of Hydra.

Though not allowed inside the building, visitors can view the impressive exterior.