Lakki, Temania
Lakki, on the
island of Leros in the Dodecanese, boasts the largest natural harbor in the
eastern Mediterranean. This town's unique charm stems from its Art Deco and minimalist
architecture, a legacy of Italian rule during the interwar period. Originally
known as Portolago, Lakki defied traditional architectural norms, blending Art Deco,
Bauhaus, Venetian, and Renaissance elements into its buildings.
Lakki is home
to an impressive collection of Art Deco structures, rivaled only by Miami. These
buildings are characterized by white walls, arcs, and built-in windows. The
town's coherence and simplicity create a harmonious blend of styles known as Rationalism or Universalism in
architecture.
Mussolini saw Leros as crucial for controlling
the eastern Mediterranean, and Lakki's natural harbor became a state-of-the-art airbase during Fascist rule.
Explore Lakki's architectural marvels, including the market hall complex with
its circular atrium and clock tower. Visit the church, school, theatre,
hospital, and Italian officers' residences (Palazzinos). Learn about Leros'
history during Mussolini's regime and its strategic importance. Explore underground facilities,
dormitories, and artillery batteries. Take in Lakki's stunning bay and harbor from above, and appreciate the town's unique blend of aesthetics. Lakki offers a mix of bars and
clubs for nightlife, and you can explore local shops for unique finds and
souvenirs.
