Publications
De – form to Re – form. Architectural Preservation as Safekeeping of the Performative Structure of Space
Classical Greek architecture, particularly the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, is revealed as a 'performative' structure that articulates cultural narratives through bodily experience, resonating with dramatic scenes. Traditional preservation methods like anastylosis often reduce monuments to static objects, obscuring their dynamic, scenographic character. The study identifies traces of this performative conception in 18th- and 19th-century architectural discourse, notably in English garden design principles and the notion of picturesque. It proposes an experimental approach that prioritizes preserving articulated scenes experienced by visitors over mere material form restoration, aiming to reintegrate monuments into contemporary culture as vibrant storytelling entities rather than passive tourist attractions.
Society and Archaeological Sites in Interwar Greece
Greek society's investment in archaeological sites, including the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae and Delphi, during the interwar period (1918–1939) was driven by national political and diplomatic agendas. This study reveals that while antiquities were promoted for their cultural value, their management often involved contradictions and conflicts between local communities, authorities, and the Greek Archaeological Service. High tourist interest during this era further complicated these relationships. The research draws on archival materials from the Directorate for the Management of the National Archive of Monuments (DMNAM) to analyze these dynamics, highlighting the complex interplay between heritage preservation, tourism, and societal priorities in modern Greece.
Figurative Images and Their Iconographic Prototypes in Decoration of Scabbard and Gorytos Overlays from Scythian Tombs of the 4th Century BC.
Research reveals that monumental Greek sculptures from the 5th and 4th centuries BC, including those from the Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, served as iconographic prototypes for decorative elements on Scythian scabbards and gorytos (shield covers) from the same period. The study identifies consistent patterns in how these motifs were adapted, such as maintaining character roles, circumstances, and affiliations with Greeks or barbarians, while allowing for creative reinterpretation by craftsmen. Notably, the same iconography was used to depict Amazons on monumental sculptures and male figures on toreutic (metalwork) pieces, suggesting a flexible yet structured approach to artistic representation. Additionally, the research highlights that Scythian patrons' attitudes toward nudity influenced the treatment of figurative images, providing insight into cultural exchange and adaptation in ancient art.
Designing a Glass Pavilion to Protect an Ancient Greek Temple
A groundbreaking approach to preserving the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Temple of Apollo Epicurius at Bassae, demonstrates that a glass pavilion can effectively protect ancient limestone structures from environmental degradation while maintaining visual transparency and passive climate control. The study introduces an innovative design featuring 24-meter-span glass beams, eliminating the need for internal columns and ensuring minimal intrusion on the monument's aesthetic integrity. This solution addresses critical challenges of visibility, structural support, and environmental regulation, offering a model for future conservation efforts at similar sites.
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