Beautiful Tinos, Greece, Captured in Brilliant Photo Posters

Several summers ago, we had the pleasure of visiting Tinos, Greece, and got an amazing tour from my brother-in-law who hosted us. Tinos is located in the Cyclades islands of Greece and is most known for the Church of Panagia Evangelistria, and its icon of the Virgin Mary, which is said to perform miracles. A long red carpet stretches from the port to the Church, and you can see worshippers crawl on their hands and knees, showing their devotion. The Church is magnificent and it’s a “must-see” when you visit the island to learn the story about the icon and light a candle.

But when I decided to pick pictures to make into photo posters for Alexi Art Shop, the subject matters that caught my eye the most were the small villages and the distinctive architectural structures that are unique to Tinos.

DOVECOTES OF TINOS

Dovecotes are two-story stone buildings that attract pigeons to hide from the wind. The purpose of attracting these pigeons was two-fold: pigeons were a good source of food and their manure was used as fertilizer. While many of the dovecotes that are still standing are newer, the concept of these structures was introduced when the island was under Venetian rule 1207-1715 AD.

LINTELS (SKYLIGHTS)

A unique architectural element in many of the village homes in Tinos are arched, semi-circle lintels over doorways and windows. These lintels were used as structural support but also to provide light and ventilation for the home. Each one was unique, allowing homeowners to express their style.

FLOATING STAIRS

Another architectural design element that served a dual purpose is floating stairs on the outside of homes that lead to the roof. These stairs seem to have no support, but they are functional, and I was able to climb them. Locals explained to us that these were used by the villagers (years ago) to quickly get to their roofs to defend their homes from invading pirates.

There are many picturesque villages in Tinos. Make sure to visit colorful Pyrgos with its white buildings and winding streets, and the unique landscape of Volax with its volcanic boulders and interesting terrain.

And don’t forget to check out our quality photo posters from Tinos and other areas of Greece to brighten your walls and share your love of this magical country.