Historic Guest House
Questionnaire
Year erected: 1800
What is the history of the property?
"Aigli” means glamour, light, fame, magnificence. This can explain the reason why a number of nymphs of the Greek mythology were mentioned with this name. Among these legendary creatures, the most well-known were:
Goddess: Asklipios' fourth daughter
Nymph: one of Esperides
Nymph: one of Naiades
Nymph: sister of Faethonas
Thiseas' fiance, because of whom he left Ariadni in Naxos island all alone.
The name “Aigli” was also attributed to an asteroid discovered in 1868 (96 Aigli).
The building of Aigli wine and gourmet luxury retreat dates back to 1800 and is one of the most classic buildings of Lefkada island.
Aigli welcomes you to a unique sensory experience and taste the wine and about wine. You can share with your loved ones, your passion for wine and good times, all accompanied by excellent food, cheese and cold cuts made by outstanding producers in our region. With its many Greek wine regions our menu represents the diversity of the Greek vineyards. Updated frequently, it always has a selection of a hundred wines: red, dry and sweet whites, roses, champagnes and sparkling wines. To help you discover the fun way for an original wine and appetizer our Sommelier invites you to its workshops Wine Discovery. Designed to meet the need of calm, friendliness and love of beautiful things, Aigli’s wine and gourmet luxury retreat consists of several carefully arranged suites. Guests come to relax in a cozy space cool in the summer or near a fireplace in winter in our conservatory. Little jewels in the heart of Lefkada, the discrete garden and courtyard of Aigli is a haven of peace.
What was the era and/or the architectural style in which the property was built?
Inspired by the centenary tradition of Lefkada’s famous vineyards and artisan fortified wines, Aigli tells you a story about soil, pebbles, rain, sunshine and shadows all in perfect balance, just like an exceptional wine. A blend of international mastery and local knowledge are well expressed in the building architecture by Notis Katopodis and Giorgos Kavadas, creatively “bottled” by the English interior designer Michael Kay Cooper. Inside, like in a bottle of wine, you will experience the richness of a deep purple, velvety wine, full of body, strong in character, where flavors and subtle notes are to be discovered by you slowly as if you were drinking it. Aigli is located at the heart of the town a few steps away from monuments, museums, shops, restaurants, gardens, seashore, yacht and cruise ship port.
Is the property surrounded by other historic buildings?
The Aigli’s building is situated in historical center of the old town of Lefkada full of ancient churches, monuments, libraries and museums.
Has restoration work taken place?
The historical building of the AIGLI has been totally renovated in 2002.
Are there any elements of particular historical importance at the building?
The unique arches of the building that are constructed from Venice artisans.
Are there any important guests or previous owners worth mentioning?
Our VIP clientele consists from English lords, foreign diplomats till members of the Greek government.
Are there any significant events that took place at the property in the past?
Aigli’s history is closely related with the summer of 1807, when Ali Pasas attacks Lefkada. Given the situation, Kapodistrias ask for Katsantonis assistance. With around two hundred men, Katsantonis heads towards Agia Mavra which used to be the name of Lefkada during that period. Arriving in Lefkada, the revolutionists were welcomed with honour by Kapodistrias.
For quite a long time and until the decision of the council which would decide on the next steps of the war, a number of the revolution leaders were hosted in the building of Aigli retreat.
The council of the revolutionists in Lefkada, which was held at “Magemeno” area, was a great success for Katsantonis who became the leader of all the revolution fighters.
At the end of the council, Kapodistrias proposed a toast and wished for the liberation of the entire region.
Has the property received any certifications for its historical status?
The Aigli is officially recognized as a heritage building with historical importance by the Greek state.
Would you describe your property as (or has it ever been in the past) a: Mansion
Villa
Is there anything that you would like to highlight, add or clarify?
Get wonderfully lost at Aigli’s fairy tale through time, space, taste, rum and wine...
