20.10.2026
The Most Famous Homes in Greece
There are some houses in Greece that gain fame because of the people who lived in them, such as writers and musicians, or even... a king!
History & Culture
Laid-back luxury, stunning views of one of the world's top island destinations and personalized attention - that's what you can expect at this historic stay. The Archipel mansion is located in the old neighbourhood of “Fraggomahalas” at the highest point of Fira, which is the capital of Santorini. The original property was built in the early 18th century and was completed before 1830. At that time, the Mansion had an important collection of archaic and Hellenistic sculptures and ceramics, many of which came from the Ancient Thira excavations. These sculptures are now shown in the archaeological museum of Fira, where they were donated in 1956.
Owners of the Archipel Mansion
The family that owned the property has Spanish origins from Catalonia. Francesco Delenda was the first of the family to settle in Greece, and records show that he moved to Athens as far back as the 14th century. The family then moved to Naxos, and finally, in the mid-16th century, they settled in Santorini. They were some of the most wealthy members of the community and were part of the aristocracy of the “Doukato tou Aigaiou” (Duchy of the Aegean). The family crest features a tower and a knife, as well as a five-pointed crown, which is the sign of an Earl.
Visitors to Archipel Mansion
During their long presence on the island of Santorini, this family has included many members who are representatives of foreign countries, including Great Britain, Austria, France, and Germany. Among them were the Emperor of Germany, Wilhelm II, the Baron Hillier Von Gertingen, an archaeologist and the first excavator of ancient Thira, and, later around 1835, the King of Greece, Otto, and Queen Amalia.
The Neighborhood of Archipel Mansion
Archipel Mansion is found in one of the highest points in Fira, in the old town, which is known as Fraggomahalas. The old town in Fira has kept some of its charm. Just above the Mansion, you will find the castle-house Goulas, one of the five medieval Casteli of Santorini and the only one that is fully restored.
Other Sites in the Area
Nearby at the edge of the cliff, the Nomikos conference center hosts a well-known music festival that takes place every September. Also in the area is the Megaro Gyzi, a newly renovated family mansion that dates back to the 17th century. It is now a cultural center owned by the Catholic Church. It is also worth seeing the Catholic Diocese complex, which includes the churches of St John the Baptist (mid-17th century) and the Rosaria Dominican Convent (from 1825). The medieval tradition continues today, with 14 nuns living permanently at the monastery. Also worth visiting nearby is one of the oldest mansions in Fira, the Vazegios Mansion. It has Venetian architectural influences. The local Firianoi (people of Fira) still remember Aunt Eleni, the youngest of the seven Vazegiou daughters, sitting by the window on the upper floor. Right in front of the house is the Archaeological Museum with a peaceful indoor patio and palm trees. The cable car that takes you to the old port is a five-minute stroll away. Also worth seeing in this area is the small church of Agios Stylianos, which is found on the edge of the Caldera, and is one of the most recognizable landmarks of Fira.
Staying at the Villa
The current house was built by its present owner, the architect Nikos Delendas, and takes the place of the old Mansion. It still follows the same scheme as the initial neoclassical palazzo. Highlights of the home include striking domes, thick walls and vaulted ceilings – the symbiosis of old and new results in an atmosphere of understated luxury and authenticity. The nature and flow of the compound lends itself to freedom of movement and privacy for all. The property is united around a luxuriant, sun-drenched courtyard, offering a variety of outdoor possibilities, surrounded by islets of gardens, planted with a medley of endemic and aromatic species. Archipel Mansion proudly continues the 600-year-old heritage of the family and continues to be a popular tourist attraction.
Links:
Aria Hotels Archipel Mansion Webpage
To make a booking, check availability here.
