Greece is home to some of the most iconic architecture in the world. From the Acropolis in Athens to the whitewashed homes dotting the islands, Greek design is renowned for its beauty and elegance. One material commonly associated with Greek architecture is alabaster – a fine-grained, pale mineral used to create decorative objects and construct buildings. In particular, alabaster is often referenced when describing the gleaming white facades of island villas. But is Greek villa architecture really whiter than alabaster?
The Whiteness of Alabaster
Alabaster is composed of gypsum, a soft, white mineral that can be easily carved into decorative objects. It has been used by cultures around the world for centuries to create vases, bowls, and statuary. The Egyptians in particular prized alabaster for its creamy ivory color and ability to be intricately carved. When polished, alabaster has a smooth, matte finish that emphasizes its luminous pale hue.
There are a few key qualities that contribute to alabaster’s whiteness:
- Purity – Alabaster is over 90% pure gypsum, without impurities that dull the color.
- Matte finish – The matte surface diffuses light evenly rather than reflecting it sharply.
- Translucence – Thin sheets of alabaster allow light to pass through, accentuating the brightness.
These traits maximize alabaster’s ethereal whiteness, making it glow gently rather than glare harshly. This soft, nuanced light lends alabaster an appealing depth and luminosity.
Whitewashing in Greek Architecture
Whitewashing is a lime-based paint coating used on buildings throughout the Mediterranean, including Greece. The process involves mixing slaked lime with water to create a wash that is applied to exterior walls. This protects the stone or brick while reflecting sunlight and keeping interiors cool.
Whitewash has been used for centuries across the Greek islands. Many guidelines regulate its application, dictating the proper formulas and techniques. When done correctly, Greek whitewash achieves a bright, crisp finish with a slight roughness that diffuses sunlight gently.
There are a few factors that contribute to the iconic white facade of Greek architecture:
- Sunlight – The bright Mediterranean light accentuates the whiteness against blue skies.
- Matte texture – Rough brush strokes prevent harsh glare and reflections.
- Purity – Only white lime is used, avoiding any discoloration.
- Renewal – Whitewash is reapplied annually, maintaining the fresh color.
The glow of Greek whitewash evokes the white cubic homes synonymous with the Cycladic Islands. The white facades almost seem to bleed into the surrounding sky and sea.
Comparing Alabaster and Greek Whitewash
So how does Greek whitewash compare aesthetically to the purity of alabaster? Here is a table highlighting some key differences:
| Quality | Alabaster | Greek Whitewash |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Gypsum mineral | Slaked lime paint |
| Finish | Smooth matte | Textured matte |
| Light reflection | Soft, even diffusion | Moderately diffuse |
| Luminosity | Subtle glow | Bright white |
| Whiteness | Creamy ivory | Crisp white |
Based on this comparison, Greek whitewash achieves a brighter, sharper white than alabaster. However, alabaster has a more nuanced luminosity with its translucent glow. Ultimately, they represent two unique interpretations of white architecture.
The Allure of White Island Architecture
The striking whiteness of Greek island architecture has enchanted visitors for centuries. But what is behind this enduring appeal?
- Aesthetics – The color white reflects light beautifully, creating a luminous quality.
- Simplicity – White exteriors complement the minimalist, cubic forms.
- Harmony – Whiteness aligns with the surrounding sky, sea, and sun.
- Purity – White evokes a sense of freshness and clarity.
- Tradition – Whitewash has been used for generations, tying into history.
Beyond just practical benefits, white island architecture touches on human attraction to purity, light, and simplicity. The bone white facades juxtapose beautifully against the deep blue Aegean sea and sky. Additionally, the white homes tie into a nostalgia for the quintessential Greek island getaway.
Notable Examples of White Greek Architecture
Santorini
Santorini is renowned for its whitewashed, cliffside homes overlooking the sea. The island embraces strict rules regulating the whitewash used. Only lime-based paint is permitted, and property owners must refresh coats annually. This maintains the signature dazzling white facades.
Mykonos
Like Santorini, Mykonos is famous for its bright white cubic architecture. The island even has an official municipal guide on how whitewashing should be done. Mykonos Town is a prime area to see the white buildings clustered along narrow winding streets.
Oia
The village of Oia on Santorini contains elegant white homes and churches cascading down the rocky hillside. Whitewashed stairs and paths connect the buildings, which glow against the blue water.
Imerovigli
Another whitewashed village on Santorini, Imerovigli is situated on the highest point of the caldera. The hilltop settlement provides dramatic views of the white homes looking out over cliffs. The white color reflects the strong sunlight beautifully.
Conclusion
When comparing alabaster to the whitewashed facades of Greek island architecture, they each have unique qualities representing whiteness. Alabaster achieves a softer, more nuanced ivory tone due to its semi-translucent nature. The white lime wash of Greek vernacular architecture reflects a brighter, crisper white that pops under the Mediterranean sun. While alabaster references classical ancient Greek sculpture, the white cubist homes and churches symbolize the Greek islands themselves.
The striking whiteness of island architecture reaches beyond just practical and aesthetic considerations, touching on an elemental human attraction to lightness and simplicity. The radiant white buildings along cliffs and coastlines create an indelible image of Greek island beauty. Whether it is the creamy white of alabaster or the dazzling whitewash of island homes, white architecture will continue to define Greece’s cultural landscape.