Description
Venetian Historical Tower for Sale in Naxos. In the heart of Naxos, within the traditional village of Kanakari in the area of Sagri, a remarkable ruined Venetian tower is offered for sale—an asset of exceptional historical importance and investment potential. This is the Tower of Francesco N. Sommaripa, also known as the “Kourkas Tower,” a property that rarely appears on the market and is clearly positioned for buyers with vision, strategy, and an appreciation for heritage.
The property sits within the settlement boundaries on a 600 sq.m. plot, featuring an existing structure of 223 sq.m. on one level (ground floor), with a total building capacity of up to 445 sq.m.
Its location combines privacy and authenticity with practical accessibility, being approximately 11.6 km from the island’s main beaches and town.
What elevates this property far beyond a typical renovation project is its historical identity. Above one of the windows, the inscription “1656 F.N.S.” is still visible—widely attributed to the year of construction and the initials of the original owner, Francesco N. Sommaripa.
The Sommaripa family was one of the prominent Venetian noble families in the Cyclades. Their lineage traces back to the French knight de Sommerive, who in 1361 married Maria Sanoudo, daughter of the former Duke of Naxos, embedding the property within a deep and authentic historical narrative.
The tower retains its imposing character despite its current condition. The roof collapsed during a storm in 1940, but prior to that, it is believed to have reflected the architectural style of the grand 17th-century mansions found across Naxos.
Adjacent to the property lies the church of Panagia Kanakariotissa, a rare “dual” temple during the Venetian era, serving both Orthodox and Roman Catholic worship—adding further cultural and architectural significance to the setting.
From an investment standpoint, one of the most critical advantages is that official archaeological approval has already been obtained prior to the sale.
This is a decisive factor, substantially reducing uncertainty and strengthening the feasibility of restoration and development.
The property is ideally suited for transformation into a private heritage residence, a boutique hospitality concept, or a distinctive high-end retreat with strong identity and narrative.
The combination of historical depth, building potential, approved permissions, and location within a traditional Cycladic settlement creates a truly rare asset with international appeal.
This is not simply a restoration project. It is the opportunity to acquire and redefine a piece of Naxos’ history into a landmark property of enduring value.
Venetian Historical Tower for Sale in Naxos. Location Information:
Naxos is a popular tourist destination, with next to the gorgeous beaches, several easily accessible ruins. Naxos is the most fertile island of the Cyclades.
It has a good supply of water in a region where water is usually inadequate. Mount Zas (999m) is the highest peak in the Cyclades, and tends to trap the clouds, permitting greater rainfall.
This has made agriculture an important economic sector with various vegetable and fruit crops as well as cattle breeding, making Naxos the most self sufficient island in the Cyclades. Naxos is also known within Greece for its potatoes.
Naxos can be reached by plane or by ferry. As Naxos has just a domestic airport, one can fly to Naxos via Athens Airport “Eleftherios Venizelos”. The flight takes about 35min.
Ferries to Naxos leave from the port of Piraeus, to the south of Athens, which is connected to the Athens International Airport by regular buses and the subway. There are also ferries from Naxos to other Cyclades and Dodecanese islands.
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