The Hands-on Workshop on the adaptive reuse of the Poretsos Monastery watermill, held from May 19 to 24, 2026, in Agrampela, Achaea, concluded with great success. The project successfully combined the cleaning, documentation, and consolidation of the monument with experiential learning activities and a participatory dialogue involving the local community and regional stakeholders.
Situated on the banks of the Erymanthos River, the ruined watermill of the Poretsos Monastery stands as a significant testament to our pre-industrial heritage values that were brought to the forefront through the workshop. Meticulous cleaning of the site brought to light crucial architectural and mechanical elements, including the chourchouri (the watermill’s penstock), as well as buried components of the mechanism, such as the waterwheel and two millstones. To ensure their temporary protection and preservation ahead of a future comprehensive restoration, the surviving structures were either consolidated using traditional mortars or structurally completed, as was the case with the arch at the outlet of the chourchouri. Concurrently, both the building and its salvaged mechanical components were scientifically documented through an open, participatory, and educational process that actively engaged residents and visitors alike.
Alongside the on-site works, a diverse public program was rolled out, featuring concise theoretical lectures, experiential walks, and guided tours of related historical monuments in the region, complemented by a focused ethnographic and archival study of the watermill. This program culminated on Saturday, May 23, with an open presentation and panel discussion exploring the potential for the adaptive reuse of the watermill, bridging cultural heritage with contemporary sustainability. The event showcased the findings of the documentation and restoration works, sparking a fruitful dialogue between locals, institutional bodies, and experts. The proposals submitted regarding sustainable management, clean energy exploitation, and the promotion of local architecture collectively form a strategic roadmap for the future of the Poretsos Monastery watermill—and potentially for similar historic watermills across Greece.
The workshop was jointly organized by the Non-Profit Organization “Enas Allos Dromos”, Boulouki, the “Υorgos Anastasiadis” Workshop of Traditional Arts and Crafts, and the Cultural Association of Agrampela.
The initiative was actively supported by the Region of Western Greece, the Technical Chamber of Greece (TEE) – Department of Western Greece, and the Municipality of Kalavryta. Generous sponsorship was provided by the Food Bank of Western Greece, the Agricultural Dairy Cooperative of Kalavryta, and the Papakanellos Bakery.
The organizers extend their deepest gratitude to the institutional supporters, sponsors, participants, and, above all, the local community for the warm hospitality and the unwavering support. The embrace demonstrated that collective action can indeed breathe new life into remote and isolated places.
