Kapodistriako Orphanage, Protected heritage building in Aegina, Greece.
Kapodistriako Orphanage is a protected building on Aegina that stands from the early years of Greek independence. The structure displays typical institutional architecture of the period, with stone construction and functional room arrangements designed for housing and educating children.
The orphanage was founded in 1828 during Greece's early independence period under Governor Ioannis Kapodistrias, who sought to establish formal care systems. It represented one of the first organized efforts to provide shelter and education to orphaned children in the newly formed nation.
The building reflects how Greek society organized care for orphaned children in the early 19th century, showing a shift toward formal institutions rather than family-based arrangements. Walking through the spaces reveals how daily life functioned for the children who lived there.
The building sits on Aegina island and can be reached by following coastal paths from the town center. Local heritage organizations offer guided visits to help visitors understand the building's history and architectural details.
The building retains much of its original architectural design from the 1820s, offering a rare glimpse into how such institutions were actually constructed. This preservation allows visitors to see firsthand the building methods and spatial arrangements that were typical of that early period.
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