Our Story
A Legacy Retreat in Pyrgos, Santorini
Santa Croce's Vision of Santorini's Living Legacy
It all started in a morning of spring 2017. While strolling down the Pyrgos hill, we were attracted by a wave of special energy inviting us to stop in front of a big mountain of stones to discover that these stones should have been a house standing there once upon a time, long ago… We immediately fell in love with this enchanted place and started reading books about the story of Pyrgos to very quicky realise that the house dates from the Middle Age. The presence of a big cittern and of a toilette in the patio were the common characteristics of the 50 houses that communicated with the Castelli through an underground labyrinth that archaeologists try to unveil some years ago.
Timeless Elegance in Santorini's Heartbeat
At the heart of Santa Croce lies a captivating tale, the narrative of the resurrection of the past glory of the place, destroyed and abandoned for many decades. Picture the ruins of an ancient villa,located on top of a windy hill, overlooking Santorini’s and surrounding Cycladic islands panoramic view, patiently awaiting its revival.
The curved arch of the exterior stair which links the two floors stands like an impressive piece of art preserved through the centuries. It has been preserved thanks to its very carefully thought and fine architecture. The red pori stones of the construction have been cleaned and reinforced with great care to preserve the original beauty of this stairway to heaven.
More than a spiritual retreat Santa Croce is an inspiring living legacy, a testament to the passion that breathed life back into its weathered stones.
Heritage
The oldest part of Santa Croce served as defence tower during the Middle Age period of Venetian rule over the island, a time when Thira became ‘Santa Irini’ (its venetian name) and the last and strongest Venetian fortress on the island was erected on Pyrgos hill. The tower was a simple square three floor defence building, with two shooting holes on the upper floor. In around 1830, when the pirate attacks ceased and the island economy began to flourish due to the Vinsanto wine trade, the tower underwent an important extension to add living and storage spaces, terraces and a big underground cellar becoming the residence of a wealthy venetian rooted family involved in wine trade.
In 1891, the property was purchased by a Greek lady, the daughter of a captain, who further expanded and renovated the house in the neoclassical style fashionable at that time. The captain’s family remained owners until the destruction of the house during the catastrophic 1956 Santorini earthquake. The ruins of Santa Croce remained forgotten and untouched for 60 years until the beginning of its reconstruction in 2017 when a Greek captain’s daughter fell in love with the magic energy of the place and bought it from the descendants.
Five years of sustainable reconstruction and restoration started in 2019, under the supervision of the Greek Ministry of Culture, to integrate modern comforts, seismic protection and environmental friendly energy installations. The guest unfolds the story of the Villa through the careful restoration of ancient objects and furniture: the 1835 PERREYMOND iron safe which became a bar, the two meter long wooden box used to prepare bread which was restored to become a bench for the ground floor patio, and the antique ikonostasia (carved wooden boxes cradling precious icons) which host today 18th century gravures depicting Santorini’s history in the living room. These restored objects are part of the celebration of Santorini’s heritage, where the past seamlessly intertwines with contemporary luxury.
Tradition
Our vision materializes in a retreat that transcends accommodation—a space where cultural exhibitions, wine tastings, fine traditional Greek cooking lessons, celebrations and intimate or family gatherings harmonize with the island’s timeless allure. Santa Croce invites you to partake in a journey, not just as guests but as storytellers, where the essence of Santorini’s history meets the luxury of the present, creating an experience imprinted in the soul. Welcome to the enchanting narrative of Santa Croce, where tradition, love, and breathtaking vistas converge into a symphony of timeless elegance.
Tale of Love, and Resilience
Santa Croce stands as a beacon of distinction in the realm of prestigious accommodations, setting itself apart through a harmonious blend of historical richness and modern indulgence. What makes Santa Croce truly unique is its unwavering commitment to preserving Santorini’s heritage. The villa, reconstructed with meticulous care, is not merely a place to stay in Santorini; it’s a living testament to the island’s history and the love that brought it back to life.
Going beyond conventional hospitality, we redefine the guest experience. The villa becomes a canvas for cultural events, gastronomic experiences, and celebration gatherings, creating an immersive atmosphere that transcends the ordinary. Its strategic and accessible location offers unparalleled views and easy access to the vibrant life of Pyrgos.
to Santorini's Timeless Narrative
Become Part of Santa Croce’s History
Step into the timeless narrative of Santa Croce, where tradition meets comfort. Embrace the heritage, become a part of our story, and craft unforgettable moments of immersion in Santorini’s rich history.
A Timeless Journey
Situated in the heart of Pyrgos, the highest village of Santorini, Santa Croce witnesses the island’s profound heritage and our commitment to upholding its enduring grace. The story of the Villa traces back centuries, amid the remnants of a once-majestic defensive tower at the edge of the medieval village, echoing the long history of Santorini.
From Heritage to Legacy
Santa Croce unfolds the soul of Santorini’s heritage, tracing its narrative from the Middle Ages to its present-day magnificence. Our legacy begins with hundreds of volcanic stones laying around a ruin, devastated by the earthquake in1956, silently witnessing centuries of evolution for over six decades, until their resurrection to form what Santa Croce has become today. Step into our historical odyssey and uncover the narrative of resilience and patience that brought back life into every stone.
A retreat of Traditional Luxury & Inspiration
Immerse yourself in the embrace of traditional Venetian architecture woven seamlessly with Cycladic elegance. Santa Croce is not just an accommodation; it offers a unique journey where antique treasures, ancient craftsmanship, and breathtaking views converge to create an atmosphere of unparalleled elegance. Experience Santorini’s history while enjoying contemporary comforts in an inspiring blend of tradition and luxury.
Crafting Unforgettable Experiences and Emotions
At Santa Croce, our attitude echoes reverence for Santorini’s rich heritage, inviting you to indulge in the beauty of the past, while savoring contemporary comfort. Our promise lies beyond traditional Greek hospitality. From cultural exhibitions to intimate gatherings, we create immersive experiences against the backdrop of Santorini’s splendor. Join us in a narrative where history and luxury harmonize to craft unforgettable moments, inspired and designed especially for you.
Commitment to Cultural Legacy and Sustainability
With the commitment to preserve Santorini’s architectural legacy, Santa Croce stands as a beacon of traditional Venetian and Cycladic elegance. Embracing corporate philanthropy and cultural patronage, we extend opportunities for artists to stay at the villa, expose their craftsmanship and offer art lessons. Sustainability is also at the core of our ethos. The natural materials with which Santa Croce was reconstructed and the facilities offered allow a sustainable preservation and use of natural resources.
