Schwartz Mansion in Ampelakia

A Vision That Changed Everything

What did it take for  Ampelakia to inscribe its name in golden letters in the pages of history? An inspired initiative, a shared vision, and a decision to cooperate—one that would forever transform the terms of trade. In 1778, the people of Ampelakia founded the "Common Company", a cooperative created to unite efforts in the cotton yarn trade, where they already excelled, especially with their famous purple-dyed yarn, colored naturally using the ritsari plant. This cooperative is considered the first of its kind in the world.

With 6,000 members, 24 workshops, and 17 branches across Europe, the cooperative was a model of innovation—an early "startup" by modern standards. By as early as 1780, Ampelakia had grown wealthy, a fact still evident in the impressive mansions that survive from that golden era.

The Schwartz Mansion – A Jewel of 18th-Century Architecture

The most imposing of all is the Schwartz Mansion, which belonged to Georgios Mavros ("Mavros" meaning "black" in Greek), president of the cooperative, also known by the nickname "Schwartz," meaning “black” in German. This three-story mansion took eight years to build and another three to decorate with intricate frescoes. It is regarded as one of the most important secular buildings in Greece.

While Ampelakia is home to several grand mansions, the Schwartz Mansion stands out as the finest example of 18th-century traditional architecture and refined aesthetic. The building includes a ground floor and two upper levels, adorned with remarkable wall paintings that depict scenes from Constantinople.

Wood is the dominant material, featured in the ceilings and as decorative wall paneling. According to a model found within the mansion, Ioannis Zerbinos was the architect, while L. Lolis painted the frescoes.

Today, the mansion operates as a museum, offering visitors a rare opportunity to step back in time and experience the grandeur and cultural sophistication of a bygone era.

Visitor Information

Opening Hours: Wednesday to Monday: 08:00–15:00 Closed on Tuesdays

Tickets

• General Admission: €5
• Special Ticket Package: Full €5, Reduced €0

Free Admission Days

• 6 March – In memory of Melina Mercouri
• 18 April – International Monuments Day
• 18 May – International Museums Day
• Last weekend of September – European Heritage Days
• National Holidays – Free admission applies

Contact
For more information, please contact: +30 24950 93302