Margarites, Crete | July 19 – 26, 2025

For more information, also check Rodakas’ website
https://rodakas.org/activity/stoneworkshop

Immerse yourself in the timeless art of stonemasonry in the historic landscape of Crete. Join us for an eight-day workshop dedicated to the theory and practice of traditional building techniques, led by master craftsmen. This is a unique opportunity to engage in a priceless exchange with the local community, the stunning natural environment, and a rich cultural heritage.

Walking the ancient gorges of Margarites and Eleutherna, visiting the iconic mitata (shepherds’ stone huts) of Psiloritis, and learning directly from masters of the craft, you will become part of a living tradition.

About the Workshop

This event features two parallel workshops, allowing participants to choose their area of focus. Both workshops will cover the essential techniques of extracting and carving local stone. The hands-on sessions with the masters will run daily in the mornings from 8:00 to 14:30.

1. Dry Stone Construction Workshop: Led by Master Kostis Vergianakis, this workshop focuses on the principles and practices of building traditional dry stone walls (xerolithies), a technique recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
2. Masonry Restoration with Natural Materials Workshop: Led by Master Yiannis Alefantinos, this workshop covers the restoration of traditional stone walls, the replacement of carved door and window frames, and the art of pointing and creating mortars using natural, locally sourced materials.

Cultural and Educational Program

In addition to the hands-on morning workshops, a rich program of evening activities is offered. These events are free of charge and open to the public, featuring guided tours, expert lectures, site visits to ancient and modern quarries, and a documentary screening followed by a discussion.

Meet the Instructors

• Yiannis Alefantinos (Instructor, Masonry Restoration): Born into a family of stonemasons in Margarites, Yiannis Alefantinos is a living repository of traditional building knowledge. He learned the craft from his father and uncles, participating in the construction and restoration of numerous churches, monasteries (including the Fortezza of Rethymno), and traditional homes. He is considered the last master craftsman in Margarites who applies the centuries-old local techniques, with a deep expertise in using local soils for creating durable and aesthetic mortars and plasters.

• Kostis Vergianakis (Instructor, Dry Stone Construction): Hailing from the village of Alpha, famous for its high-quality limestone (Alfopetra), Kostis Vergianakis was taught the art of stonework in 1985 by renowned local masters. His journey has been one of continuous learning, collaborating with other respected craftsmen to deepen his understanding of technique and form. Today, Kostis follows the path laid by his mentors, carrying on a significant legacy with valuable construction experience and a passion for passing his knowledge on to the next generation.

Cost & Registration

The cost of the workshop is €160.

To reserve your place, a deposit of €60 is required. Please deposit the amount to the following bank account:

Bank: Piraeus Bank

Account Name: ΑΜΚΕ RODAKAS

IBAN: GR60 0171 3750 0063 7516 4234 881

To register your participation, please fill out the form below.

Accommodation

Free accommodation is available for a limited number of participants at the hospitality area of the Monastery of Christ Savior and Saint Gedeon.

Additionally, several local guesthouses offer accommodation:

• DM Margarites: Can accommodate six people. Contact: Ms. Asimenia Kavgalaki, +30 6936601084.
• H&M HOME: Can accommodate six people. Contact: Mr. Haris Roussis, +30 6976745669.
• Kouriton House: Offers double, triple, and quadruple rooms with breakfast. Contact: Ms. Anastasia Fryganaki, +30 6945722052.
• Chalicoutika: A fully equipped house with two double bedrooms and one single bed. Contact: Mr. George Skalidakis, +30 6973005153.
• Archontiko Rodomeli: Guesthouse with double rooms. Contact: Ms. Eleni Giannousaki, +30 6979101973.

Detailed Workshop Program