Interview at Villa Pyrgos: Santorini, Reimagined

Perched above the island on the hills of Santorini, Villa Pyrgos is a rare expression of heritage, craftsmanship, and quiet luxury. Away from the rhythm of Santorini’s more frequented corners, Pyrgos reveals a different side of the island—one rooted in history, authenticity, and sweeping views over the Aegean. Here, within the walls of a meticulously restored 19th-century home, every detail tells a story shaped by time.

More than a place to stay,Villa Pyrgos is the result of a deeply personal vision. Avra, who, with the assistance of her team, has reimagined a historic residence into an immersive experience where past and present coexist effortlessly. From its cave pool carved into volcanic stone to its panoramic terraces overlooking the sea, the villa invites guests into a slower, more meaningful way of experiencing Santorini.

We spoke with Avra, the owner of Villa Pyrgos, to understand the story behind the home, the inspiration that brought it to life, and the moments that make a stay here truly unforgettable.

What first drew you to Santorini, and what inspired you to purchase the home here in Pyrgos?

It all began on a spring morning in 2017. While strolling down a hill in Pyrgos, we were drawn by a unique energy that beckoned us to pause before a large mound of stones. As we explored, we discovered that these stones once formed a house that had stood there long ago. We immediately fell in love with this enchanting place and began researching its history, quickly realizing that the house dates back to the Middle Ages and was one of 30 homes connected to the Castelli, the medieval Venetian castle, through an underground labyrinth that archaeologists have attempted to uncover in recent years.

Five years of sustainable reconstruction and restoration began in 2018, under the supervision of the Greek Ministry of Culture, integrating modern comforts, seismic protection, and environmentally friendly energy installations.

What first drew us to Santorini was its breathtaking beauty and unique volcanic landscape, offering a blend of dramatic cliffs, stunning sunsets, and crystal-clear, deep blue Aegean Sea waters. Santorini is a truly unique island, with magical charm, rich history, and vibrant culture. We were particularly inspired to purchase a home in Pyrgos due to its authentic character as one of the island’s oldest medieval villages. Pyrgos offers a tranquil escape from the more touristic areas, allowing visitors to immerse themselves in the local lifestyle and heritage in full privacy.

Villa Pyrgos beautifully blends contemporary architecture with the island’s natural beauty. What was your vision or design philosophy when bringing this home to life?

The architecture of Villa Pyrgos, a member of Historic Hotels of Europe, is inspired by traditional Cycladic styles, featuring clean lines, open spaces, and natural materials that harmonize with the surrounding environment. The villa also showcases elements of Venetian architecture, highlighted by its two prominent crossbows, a reminder of the island’s historical occupation by the Venetians.

Large windows and terraces were strategically placed to maximize views of the stunning landscape, allowing natural light and air to flood the interior and create an inviting atmosphere. We aimed to use earthy tones and textures that complement the island’s natural elements, such as volcanic black and red stone, establishing a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The overall design philosophy emphasizes sustainability and respect for the environment, ensuring that Villa Pyrgos not only provides a traditional luxury experience, but also honors the island’s architectural heritage.

Do you have a favorite space in the villa that holds special meaning for you?

One of my favorite spaces in the villa is the double room on the first floor, which we call “The Madonna Room.” This room holds special significance for us, as it was the only one left intact after the devastating earthquake of 1956. During the restoration process from 2018 to 2023, we made sure to honor its history by hanging an icon of the Madonna on the wall.

Positioned to gaze out over the Aegean Sea through a high window, the icon not only served as a protective presence for the house, but also symbolizes hope and continuity as we brought the villa back to life. This room encapsulates the resilience of the villa and our dedication to preserving its legacy.

What do you love most about the villa’s location in Pyrgos, and what can guests look forward to discovering nearby?

What we love most about the villa’s location in Pyrgos is its authenticity and tranquility, providing a refreshing contrast to the more crowded tourist areas of Santorini. As the highest and one of the island’s oldest villages, Pyrgos offers guests the opportunity to experience a rich cultural heritage and local lifestyle, with ancient churches, gastronomic restaurants, artisanal shops, and stunning views from the old castle ruins.

Pyrgos’ central position also allows easy access to nearby attractions, including beautiful beaches, the archaeological site of Akrotiri, and local wineries known for producing some of Santorini’s finest wines. This location enables guests to immerse themselves in the island’s culture while enjoying an unforgettable escape.

Are there any distinctive amenities, details, or services that make Villa Pyrgos stand out among other luxury homes in Santorini?

What makes Villa Pyrgos truly unique is its unwavering commitment to preserving Santorini’s heritage. Reconstructed with meticulous care, the villa is not merely a place to stay; it is a living testament to the island’s history and the love that brought it back to life. Villa Pyrgos stands out among other villas in Santorini for its distinctive historic character, combined with exceptional amenities, thoughtful details, and personalized services.

Among its standout features are the unique cave pool and the outdoor infinity jacuzzi, offering a serene and private setting. The villa also boasts spacious outdoor areas, complete with comfortable lounge and dining spaces, ideal for enjoying meals prepared by our private chef using the traditional wood oven.

To further elevate the guest experience, we offer personalized services, including concierge assistance to plan day trips, private tours, and unique experiences across the island. We also provide a range of wellness options, such as in-villa spa treatments and yoga sessions designed to promote relaxation and rejuvenation.

These amenities and services, combined with our commitment to exceptional hospitality, make Villa Pyrgos a truly unique and luxurious retreat in Santorini, ensuring that every stay is an unparalleled experience.

What kind of feeling or experience do you hope guests take away after staying at your villa?

Set against the backdrop of the majestic medieval castle (Castelli) and overlooking the island’s panorama, our villa promises a unique experience of historical and cultural immersion, a timeless journey across the centuries.

Guests discover the story of the villa through the careful restoration of ancient objects and furniture: the 1835 PERREYMOND iron safe, now transformed into a bar; the two-meter-long wooden box once used to prepare bread, restored as a bench for the ground floor patio; and the antique ikonostasia (carved wooden boxes cradling precious icons), which now display 18th-century gravures depicting Santorini’s history in the living room. These restored pieces celebrate Santorini’s heritage, where the past seamlessly intertwines with contemporary luxury.

Our vision was to create a tranquil retreat where guests can immerse themselves in the island’s history and culture while enjoying the comforts of modern living. Most importantly, we hope our guests feel at home away from home and savor the joy of authentic, slow living.

A stay at Villa Pyrgos is more than a getaway—it’s an immersion into Santorini’s rich history, culture, and timeless beauty.

To book Villa Pyrgos, click here.