The White Tower

The ruins of a marble circular tower, known as the White Tower, are situated on the southwestern —and most metalliferous— part of Serifos, atop a rocky ridge overlooking the island’s rugged landscape. A robust structure with strong foundations, the tower originally rose to several storeys and featured an internal staircase, as well as a monumental entrance at ground level. Based on archaeological finds and masonry analysis, the White Tower is dated to the 4th century BC and remained in use until the 7th century AD. Its construction features, combined with its commanding position and extensive visual control over both land and sea, indicate a defensive function, likely serving as a watchtower, signal station, guard post, or place of refuge.

Following its collapse, a substantial portion of the structural material accumulated within the interior and was dispersed around the site. Many stones were fractured or severely damaged, while the structural stability of the remaining sections was compromised. In response, a detailed pathology assessment was undertaken, supported by systematic photographic and drawing documentation. A specialized conservation and consolidation study was subsequently prepared, followed by the implementation of the required interventions. The restoration study was based on the precise recording and classification of the scattered architectural members, as well as the documentation of the monument’s existing condition. It proposes the full reconstruction of the entrance and selected openings, along with the partial reinstatement of structural elements, in order to recover the legibility of the tower’s form and circulation system, including its internal staircase. Today, visitors can experience the monument in situ, within a landscape that remains largely unaltered, allowing for a direct engagement with its historical and environmental context.