The Portrait Home

Some houses have charm. This one has character. A home with a face, a date, and a story.

In the village of Pyrgos, Tinos, this historic residence dates back to 1836 and was built in two stages, displaying two distinct façades: a village-style façade on the northwest side and a more classical façade on the southwest side. Its ornate details subtly indicate that it was once owned by wealthy Pyrgiotes and constructed to last.

A carved stone portrait relief set into the wall — believed to depict the original constructor — stops you in your tracks. Not a “feature,” but a historical imprint that has watched the village for nearly two centuries.

Inside, the house feels like a living archive: a sitting room filled with artefacts, objects, and memories, curated over time. It opens onto a terrace that resembles a film scene — the kind where you pause for a moment, coffee in hand, book open, sunlight shining on the white walls, and you realise: this isn’t a museum you’re visiting. This is your home. And you’re part of its story now.

Practicality matches the atmosphere: the home offers approximately 120 sqm, is fully furnished, and features 2 bedrooms arranged across levels (a main bedroom plus a smaller guest sleeping alcove), 2 bathrooms, a dedicated first-floor office with a staircase leading to the roof, and an equipped kitchen. A wood-burning stove and electric heating panels throughout ensure it remains cosy in winter, while the engraved marble bathroom feels like an heirloom.

This is not “another Cycladic house”; it’s for someone who wants to connect with architecture, craftsmanship, and a place where the past still lives in the walls.

Location

Pyrgos—meaning “tower” in Greek—is the largest village on Tinos and one of its most charming places to explore. The property is accessible via the village’s charming streets—yet it remains less than 50 metres from the Pyrgos–Panormos main road.  Daily essentials, including the supermarket and bakery, are within walking distance, and the property can also be accessed from the church of Agia Foteini, making it easy to handle goods without climbing any stairs.

Pyrgos is especially known for its marble tradition—including marble-paved lanes and architectural details—from the bright whites to the distinctive green tones found on Tinos. This long-standing craftsmanship turned Pyrgos into a recognised artistic centre and the birthplace and inspiration of notable Greek sculptors and artists. Narrow alleys, whitewashed homes, small churches, and flowering façades complete the setting, giving the village an authentic feel that is also beautifully cared for.

Furthermore, the beaches are within easy reach, with nearby options such as the sandy Rochari Beach, the more secluded Agia Thalassa, and the scenic, pebbly Kavalourko.

Key distances

• Pyrgos Village Centre: Walking distance
• Ormos Panormou: 3 km
• Rochari Beach: 4 km
• Kavalourko Beach: 4.5 km
• Isternia Village: 5.5 km
• Karidani Village: 9 km
• Tinos Town Centre: 26 km