This is the third grant for dry stone workshops, see the previous grants here!
The challenge
Traditional dry stone structures once enabled the Cyclades communities to build a rich, sustainable environment able to secure the concentration of fertile soil and water retention in order to grow food and cover local needs. Dry stone structures, particularly sustaining walls, have been an emblematic element of the landscape demonstrating that human activity can be in harmony with the environment. However, the economic model of Greek islands transforming to focus solely on tourism and profit seeking, has led to the decline of this traditional architecture, leaving them defenceless towards water scarcity and erosion. With climate change intensifying these issues, reviving these techniques is crucial to restoring balance and ensuring the islands’ resilience.
The solution
CPF co-funded The Mitato of Amorgos to organize the 3rd Dry Stone Workshop “The Amorgian Craftsmanship” in Amorgos contributing to the revival of traditional dry stone techniques.
These structures, once integral to the islands’ sustainable environment, help combat soil erosion, manage water resources, and maintain biodiversity. Through hands-on training, restoration works, and knowledge-sharing initiatives, the project reintroduced these dry stone methods, ensuring their adaptation to modern climate challenges.
The Workshop gave emphasis to fostering local engagement and interisland cooperation, paving the way for the solution to be expanded in more islands of Cyclades.
Activities
The 3rd Dry Stone Workshop “The Amorgian Craftsmanship” took place from October 21-25, 2024, on Amorgos Island, focusing on practical training, restoration, and awareness-building. More specifically the following activities took place:
- Restoration & Improvement Works: Repairing 76m of dry stone sustaining walls, uncovering and restoring 100m of an old cobblestone path, and rehabilitating an ancient well with protective measures against debris.
- Dry Stone Apprenticeship: Practical, hands-on training sessions for local and visiting masons, with guidance from experienced craftsmen.
- Educational Programs: Workshops for primary and secondary students in collaboration with the Centre of Education for the Environment and Sustainability of Korthion, Andros.
- Evening Lectures & Screenings: A series of talks and film screenings to promote awareness of dry stone heritage and sustainable land practices.
- Round Table Discussion: Experts, masons, and representatives from various islands discussed the future of dry stone training and certification in Greece, paving the way for an action plan.
- Anthropological Research: A study on the current status of dry stone craftsmanship, featuring interviews with remaining artisans to document and analyze their knowledge.
These activities aim to revitalize traditional techniques and integrate them into modern environmental strategies, securing a sustainable future for the Cyclades.
About the Grantee
The Mitato of Amorgos raises awareness within the local society in regards to environmental issues,helping the youth get in touch with traditional crafts, such as dry stone building, to transfer the knowledge from one generation to the next but also to combine it with modern techniques and methods.
What you can do
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