Hydra Island Is A
Greek Preserved National Monument
Hydra is preserved as a
National Monument and as such there are numerous rules and
local laws governing not just building or renovation of property on Hydra
but also where, how and the style, etc. The
National Preservation Order (NPO) is one of the reasons why Hydra is as
attractive as it undoubtedly is and why from a real estate point of view
it is so exclusive and property not only holds its price but annually
rises way above the average prices for Greece. A stipulation of the NPO ensures that Hydra is completely free
of any type of motorised vehicle (with the exception of three municipal
trucks) and there are no roads as such. There are a number of wide arterial lanes that are used by the three
municipal trucks that collect refuse and take it to the refuse dump at the
end of the island just passed Mandraki Bay. The arterial lanes are also
used for emergency access by the small electric ambulance that was
introduced to the island in 2004/5. So for the main part you will never
see cars or the dreaded mopeds anywhere on Hydra and there is no
likelihood of there ever being any. The municipal trucks are limited to
the coast road and two routes from the harbour to the back of the town. The NPO and
various other rules that have been laid down since its inception in the
1950's ensure that the appearance of the island is much the same as it was
circa 1850. This is the reason why the island hasn't been blighted with
the uninspiring 60's - 80's architecture that has spoilt so many of
Greece's islands and even Athens come to that. The
department of the environment and the municipality of Hydra jointly
administer the NPO and both have to be applied to for building permission.
Without doubt owners will require the assistance of a reputable master
builder and qualified architect to submit proposed building/renovation
plans to the various departments. SaronicNet include a list of master
builders and architects along with references for each in our "Insider's
Guide" which is given exclusively to our real estate clients. |
