The construction of buildings in Lefkada is one of the most interesting in Greece as well as outside it. This is due to their dual construction structure. Essentially, it is a study of the unlimited possibilities regarding building construction during the pre-industrial era, as well as a result of centuries of Greek structural tradition combined with the watery character of the area in which they were created. In a literally floating environment.

Especially the static system, where the two materials, stone and wood, are used statically independently, is something that happens only in Lefkada. This system, with countless variations, remains invulnerable to even the strongest earthquakes.

For the first time in modern history, there is mention of mixed constructions in the description of the earthquake of October 2, 1613, where it is noted, among other things, that: "... and the houses of Agia Mavra, as many houses as were made of timber, the tiles fell and were shattered, and those that were stone were cracked from top to bottom, and the tiles fell and were shattered" (Note: Priest Nik. Zampelios 1613).

The method of founding the stone construction, which dates back to prehistoric times, and the method of securing the wooden superstructure with cantilevering and the structural practices of shipbuilding create conditions so that the humble buildings of Lefkada successfully withstand the greatest vibrations and stubbornly resist recurring wear.

Having a deep understanding of the parameters of Lefkadian construction and morphology, I believe that the representations of K. Skavenitis transform a technical subject into an artistic one and touch the sensitive strings of all those of us who grew up in the alleys of the Chora and were washed by the maestro of the Ionian.

Chara Papadatou, Architect