Because of their distinctive architecture, world-famous sites like Mykonos and Santorini are instantly recognised in photographs. Influencers adore snapping photos in front of the whitewashed homes with blue accents and doors that dot the islands. But why are the Santorini houses blue and white?
The striking blue and white colour scheme of the residences is not based on Greek iconography. In truth, there were several reasons for this unique feature of Santorini Island architecture, the most of which were practical.
Santorini’s ideal environment has hot summers and brilliant sunshine for several months of the year. The residents had to build their homes in such a way that they could keep the heat in the interior to a minimum. The white hue reflects much of the bright light, keeping the houses cool, which was a primary purpose of traditional design. Summers are significantly more acceptable and enjoyable when the houses are made heat resistant.
Another reason for the dominance of whitewashed Santorini Houses may be found here. During the dictatorship of Ioannis Metaxas, Greece was experiencing a cholera outbreak. He urged locals to paint their homes to combat the sickness. The whitewash used to paint the homes contained limestone, which may seem weird now. Limestone is a potent disinfectant, and there were few alternatives available at the time. As a result, Greek residents painted their homes to help sanitize them and prevent cholera from spreading.
White has remained the dominant color and trademark of Santorini and the Cyclades for a variety of reasons, and it creates an awe-inspiring spectacle. Visitors are overwhelmed by a sense of optimism, brightness, and peacefulness radiating from the island. White suits the raw beauty of Santorini, offers equilibrium, and is attentive to the intricacies of other color that just emphasize it.
