THE SHAPE, FUNCTION AND CONSTRUCTION OF TINOS PIGEON HOUSES

Tinos pigeon houses represent the most interesting buildings in the Cyclades.
One of their most distinguishing characteristics is facade stone tiles used for the protection against the sun, thus keeping the temperature within pidgeon houses relatively low.
Variegated patterns range from geometric figures and plant symbols to Christian symbols and complex masks. Pigeons were bred for various purposes. Their excrements were melted in the water used for watering the fields and terraces. The local diet consisted of pigeon meat and eggs. The roofs of pigeon houses were used for drying the fruit and occasional storaging.
Pigeon houses are usually two-floor buildings. The first part is closed and is used for the storage of tools. Rectangular pigeon holes, small in size, are situated on a stone shelf which can often be found on all the sides of the building. The roof often takes the shape of a dome.