Greece, with its picturesque islands and stunning coastlines, is home to some of the world’s most recognizable architecture—blue and white houses that dot the landscape, especially on islands like Santorini, Mykonos, and Paros. These charming homes, perched on cliffs and overlooking the deep blue Aegean Sea, have become a symbol of Greece’s iconic beauty and a major draw for tourists. But what is the mystery behind these uniform colors, and why do so many houses across Greece share this striking combination of blue and white?
To unravel this mystery, we must explore the country’s rich history, cultural significance, religious symbolism, and even practical reasons that have led to the widespread adoption of these colors in traditional Greek architecture.
Historical Context and Symbolism
The aesthetic of whitewashed buildings with blue roofs or windows has a long history in Greece. However, the prominence of this color scheme began in the early 20th century, driven by various historical events, practical needs, and cultural influences.
The Ottoman Influence
During the period of Ottoman rule, from the 15th to the 19th century, Greek society underwent significant changes. At this time, homes were typically made of natural materials like stone and wood and were often left in their original earthy tones. However, the transition to whitewashed walls came later, as Greece sought to reclaim its identity and distinguish itself from the Ottoman influence after the country gained independence in 1830.
While there is no direct link between the Ottomans and the blue and white colors, the desire for a unified national aesthetic emerged as Greece worked to form its national identity in the years that followed independence.
Political Influence of the 20th Century
One of the key moments that solidified the blue and white theme was during the dictatorship of Ioannis Metaxas in the 1930s. To promote national unity and cultural pride, Metaxas imposed a law that required all homes to be painted in whitewash (lime paint) for reasons of cleanliness and health, as lime has disinfectant properties. This was especially important in villages where hygiene was a significant concern. The government encouraged or even mandated the use of white as part of its campaign for uniformity and national pride.
Around the same time, blue began to appear in tandem with white. While the official reasons behind this remain unclear, one widely accepted explanation is the symbolism of these colors with the Greek flag. The flag itself is blue and white, representing the sea (blue) and the waves or purity (white). The flag also symbolizes Greek Orthodox faith and the country’s long-standing cultural ties to the ocean.
Religious Significance
The religious aspect of the blue and white color scheme cannot be ignored. Greece is deeply rooted in its Orthodox Christian traditions, and the color blue holds significant spiritual meaning in the faith. Blue is often associated with the Virgin Mary, the protector of sailors, which is especially important in a nation historically reliant on maritime trade and travel. Additionally, blue is considered to ward off evil spirits and bring protection, a belief that can be seen in the widespread use of “mati” or the evil eye talisman, also commonly blue.
White, on the other hand, symbolizes purity, light, and holiness, making it a natural choice for homes in a deeply religious country like Greece. The combination of blue and white, then, goes beyond aesthetics; it represents a spiritual connection to faith, history, and the sea.
Practical Reasons for Whitewash
The decision to paint homes white had practical implications as well. The Aegean islands, particularly the Cyclades, where these blue and white houses are most common, experience long, hot summers. The sun shines relentlessly, and the temperature can soar. White reflects sunlight, helping to keep homes cool and reducing the need for additional forms of cooling. This practical reason has been vital for the survival of the inhabitants in these small villages, where resources were often limited.
Additionally, lime paint was an affordable and easily accessible material that locals could produce themselves. Lime, when mixed with water, created a whitewash that was durable, easy to apply, and effective in keeping the buildings cool. It also acted as a mild disinfectant, which was important in controlling the spread of disease in close-knit island communities.
Why Blue?
While white was the obvious choice for reflecting heat, blue was chosen for different reasons. The roofs, shutters, and doors of many homes in Greece are painted blue. One of the more practical reasons for this is that early paints used by islanders were made from a mixture of limestone and a cleaning agent known as “loulaki,” a synthetic form of blue powder used to brighten clothes. Loulaki, which gave off a distinct blue hue, was a popular choice among the locals, and over time, it became a traditional aspect of Greek architecture.
Blue, a color closely associated with the sky and sea, also adds a harmonious balance to the surroundings, blending the human-made structures seamlessly into the natural environment. In many ways, the blue shutters, doors, and roofs reflect the intense blue of the Aegean Sea and sky, creating a visual connection between nature and the built environment.
Tourism and Preservation
While the blue and white houses of Greece began out of necessity and practicality, their visual appeal has become one of the country’s most recognizable features. The color combination creates a calming, visually pleasing aesthetic that has attracted visitors from all over the world. Today, the blue and white houses of islands like Santorini are more than just homes; they are part of the iconic image of Greece as a tourist destination.
In fact, these houses are now protected under strict building regulations, ensuring that the traditional aesthetic is maintained. Many areas, particularly on the Cycladic islands, require that homes adhere to this blue and white color scheme. This is done not only to preserve the traditional look but also to maintain the overall cultural and historical value of these areas. The blue and white homes are an important part of Greece’s architectural heritage and have become a major contributor to the country’s booming tourism industry.
Aesthetic Harmony
The consistent use of blue and white across Greek islands creates an unparalleled sense of harmony between man-made structures and nature. The striking blue domes of churches, the blue doors and windows, and the pristine white walls all merge with the environment. The brilliance of the white reflects the powerful Mediterranean sun, while the blue mirrors the endless expanse of sea and sky.
The simplicity of the architecture—domed roofs, cubic shapes, and minimalistic design—also aligns with the natural landscape. This simplicity is not just a design choice but a way of life in Greece. The humble, whitewashed homes of the islands reflect the modest and relaxed lifestyle that characterizes many of the people who live there.
Conclusion
The blue and white houses in Greece are not just an aesthetic delight; they are a deep reflection of the country’s history, culture, religion, and geography. The white symbolizes purity, light, and the desire for cleanliness, while the blue represents the sea, the sky, and protection from evil. From practical reasons like cooling homes to historical mandates by the government, the blue and white architecture has evolved into one of Greece’s most defining characteristics. Today, these homes serve as a visual reminder of Greece’s rich cultural past and its harmonious relationship with nature, making them a true mystery unlocked by history, religion, and tradition.
