A time-honored technique is gaining renewed significance as a tool for building a more sustainable future.

Led by the School of Civil Engineering of the National Technical University of Athens and initiated by MedINA – the Mediterranean Institute for Nature and Man – the construction of a network of 120 stone terraces was recently completed in Sifnos. The project, part of the European CARDIMED initiative, enhances the island’s resilience against the effects of the climate crisis.

Implemented in May and June, the work focused on the Taxiarchis Skafis and Chonis streams—two vital waterways that feed Sifnos’ main stream, which flows into the port of Kamares. Site selection was guided by field research, active engagement with the local community, and the integration of both historical knowledge and modern technology.

This light-touch intervention revives a traditional water management practice typical of arid islands, based on the ancient dry stone technique. Deeply rooted in local heritage, this method is now being recognized as a Nature-based Solution with multiple environmental benefits.

Constructed along ephemeral streams, the stone terraces act as natural “steps,” slowing down the flow of water. This helps replenish the groundwater table, reduces flood and drought risk, and supports local biodiversity—all without disturbing the natural landscape.

The hands-on construction was carried out by Boulouki, through a three-week professional apprenticeship program. Ten young artisans took part, receiving in-depth training in dry stone building techniques.

You can view highlights from the construction process and the apprenticeship program in this video.

The project’s completion was celebrated at the Cultural Centre of Sifnos “Marianthi Simou.” During the event, both the construction and educational dimensions were showcased, followed by a lively discussion emphasizing the vital role of the local community in maintaining the terraces and the potential to replicate the initiative on other islands.

Impact assessment of the project is ongoing, supported by sensors that monitor water levels and hydrological conditions in the area.

Guided by tradition and inspired by nature, Sifnos is becoming a beacon of how innovation can be “built” with stone and collective wisdom.
The network of stone terraces is more than a technical intervention—it’s a tangible call for sustainable, place-based solutions that honor both the heritage and future of the Greek islands.

This initiative is part of the CARDIMED project, funded by the European Union under the Horizon Europe 2021–2027 programme, with a total budget of €19,971,411.20. The project is led by the School of Civil Engineering at the National Technical University of Athens, with MedINA among the 53 implementing partners.