Konaki

The Konaki, owned by Admiral Nikolis Apostolis, is a characteristic example of Psara’s vernacular architecture. Built in 1810 from dressed poros stone and blocks in shades of yellow and gray, the asymmetry of its openings and the mix of elements from different traditions — medieval European, Oriental folk art and the building practices of Mainland Greece — give it a distinct character. Over the lintel of the main entrance on the south side was carved “HOUSE OF SAILING SHIPS.” From 1810 to 1824 it served as the Naval Commissariat, and after the destruction of Psara it was used by the Turks as the Administrative Building (Konaki) until liberation in 1912. Thereafter, until 1928, it housed the island’s first Primary School, known as the “old school.” Today it belongs to the Municipality, and its restoration is planned so it can house the Museum of Psara.