once upon a home

Our history – The true story

A journey through time…

( A tale of stone, soul, and new beginnings )

once upon a home

Our History

Once upon a time, in the autumn of 1922, a courageous widow named Archontia stepped off a boat onto the shores of Chania, Crete. She had fled the ashes of her home in Asia Minor, carrying nothing but her will to survive and two young children by her side — Lamrbini, just 15, and little Dimitris, only 2 years old. Tragically, young Dimitris’s journey was brief, as he peacefully departed shortly after their arrival in Chania.

Απόφαση πώλησης κατοικίας στην πρόσφυγα Φιλιώ Κάκανου

The Greek state, in an effort to support the countless refugees of the population exchange between Greece and Turkey, undertook the construction of homes to shelter those displaced, with local materials and reflecting the architectural style of the era. Thus, Archontia was among those who found solace within the walls of one such modest yet sturdy dwelling. It was a twin, charming stone house featuring a shared tiled roof and wall with its neighbour, an intimate courtyard, a cozy bedroom, a functional kitchen, and a simple bathroom. yet filled with a spirit of independence and new beginnings. This house was more than shelter. It was hope.

Years passed. In 1937, the house found its way to a relative of Archontia named Filiò, and from there, it gracefully continued to cradle generations of memories, each adding their own chapter to its rich history. Quietly witnessing stories of love, struggle, and life itself.

Αστική αποκατάσταση πρόσφυγος

In 2019, this house chose us as its next chapter. With deep respect and care for its history, reverence and love, we began a thoughtful restoration, stone by stone, dedicated to honoring its soul and its storied past. Our vision was to gently blend historical charm with contemporary elegance, natural textures and timeless simplicity with minimalist design and quiet luxury.

Today, the villa welcomes travelers from across the world—offering not just a serene and comfortable place to stay, but a place to connect with real heritage, authentic Cretan living, and a story that still breathes through every wall.

 

Come, be part of its story…

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