The Ministry of Shipping and Island Policy is taking action to preserve one of the most distinctive images of the island of Milos: the colourful, traditional boat garages known as “Syrmata,” at the village of Mandraki.
According to the newspaper Kathimerini, the Ministry has begun designating the structures as protected heritage sites in an effort to prevent their conversion into tourist accommodations, a process that leads to changes in their original character.
First 58 syrmata on Milos declared protected
Under the initiative of the General Secretary of the Aegean, Manolis Koutoulakis, the classification of the first 58 Syrmata located in the Mandraki area as protected heritage sites has been published in the Government Gazette.
The Syrmata are small, usually six-meter-long, seaside structures often carved into the rock. They were traditionally used by local fishermen to store and protect their boats during the winter months. With their brightly coloured doors and simple, vernacular architecture, they are among the most recognizable features of Milos.
Related: Greece Stops Hotel Construction on Milos’ Iconic Beach
Years ago, an effort to register and protect these structures was started, but never completed. The process was recently resumed due to a growing trend of converting them into tourist rentals, which results in the alteration of their original characteristics.
The Ministry of Shipping’s competent service reports that most Syrmata still maintain their traditional use. While some have been converted to tourist lodging, they have not yet undergone major structural changes.
No Airbnbs at Syrmata
For the 58 newly declared protected Syrmata, their conversion into tourist accommodations or private residences is now prohibited.
In addition to their original use as boat shelters, the protected structures may now be used for cultural facilities (exhibitions, folklore museums, art workshops), and offices for local associations.
Residential use is permitted in only three of the structures, as they already include a living space. The protected status covers the original structure (whether subterranean or not), as well as the surrounding communal spaces, such as paths, platforms, and steps built into the natural formations.
Any subsequent external additions or unauthorized constructions will, however, be required to be removed.
Related: Justin Bieber’s New Friendship with a 79-Year-Old Greek Fisherman at Syrmata
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