OUR STORY

The architectural tradition of Santorini is undeniably extraordinary and one of the main factors that contributed to the trademark architectural landscape of the island was its long, naval tradition. Santorini's strategic geographic position made it ideal for establishing an important center of shipping, even beyond the Mediterranean. Shipowners, captains and seafarers built their houses along the caldera ridge, as well as on hills that were found in more remote areas, such as Exo Gonia, or Pyrgos. 

The particularity of Santorini's volcanic and craggy terrain offered an easy and affordable alternative for construction. So the resourceful inhabitants started to carve their houses into the volcanic rocks, creating what was to be known as Santorini's "cave-houses", or "yposkafa" in Greek. Such is the case of Nano Suites; built circa 189o, it used to be the family mansion of captain Makarios. Apart from his naval office, the captain was also an avid winemaker, and naturally, he created a winery* right below the estate, where he produced fine meta-volcanic wine, and later on exported it to Constantinople.

Every single element of its Neoclassic and Cycladic heritage has been preserved, with a deep respect for Santorini's tradition; from the building's aristocratic facade, its stucco-painted walls and high vaulted ceilings, to its wooden doors, intricate window aprons and collectible artworks. On account of this, the mansion that is now home of Nano Suites is being protected by the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) as a monument of local architecture.

Take a journey back in time. Find yourself experiencing aspects of life in the previous centuries, embraced by the legacy of the craftsmanship of authentic local architecture, and at the same time, indulge in modern amenities and feel pampered by our warm hospitality. Gift yourself with the experience of staying in one of the most traditional settlements of Santorini, in a mansion filled with history, where every nook and cranny reveals its distinctive character. 


*Santorini is well-known for its canavas, traditional wineries that are dug into the volcanic rocks of the island, thus they present no structural foundations—a fine example of Santorini’s vernacular, agrarian and sustainable architecture. The vaulted caves of the canavas offered the ideal conditions (humidity and constant temperature) for the wine to fully ripen in the wooden barrels, and produce unique wine varieties.