Documentary for drystone building and the tradition of argadia in kasos
- Mar 5
- 2 min read
Updated: Jun 13
What can a local tradition reveal about the relationship between people, landscape and cultural heritage knowledge?
In 2025, the Municipality of the Heroic Island of Kasos entrusted COMM'ON with documenting the past and future of drystone construction on the island.
In collaboration with filmmaker Nefeli Papaioannou, we developed the documentary "Seeking Argadia: The Past and Future of Drystone Construction in Kasos, approaching the subject of drystone building through the lens of a local custom known as Argadia.
Argadia is a traditional practice of voluntary collective labour, once common across many Aegean communities under different names.
Through the preparation and rebuilding of drystone structures, the custom reflects values of cooperation, mutual support and collective responsibility that have historically shaped everyday life on the island.
The documentary brings together local craftspeople, residents and community members whose lives remain connected to the practice of drystone construction. Through oral testimonies, landscapes, archival memories and the contemporary revival of Argadia at Agios Georgios in Hadies, the film explores both the cultural significance of drystone building and its relevance for the future.
More than a construction technique, drystone building represents a way of relating to place, natural resources and community. By documenting the stories, knowledge and practices that surround it, the documentary contributes to ongoing efforts to safeguard and transmit this important element of cultural heritage to future generations.
The documentary is available on YouTube with English subtitles.
Seeking Argadia: The Past and Future of Drystone Construction in Kasos,
Concept & Research: Marou Chatzopoulou, Nefeli Papaioannou
Direction, Cinematography & Editing: Nefeli Papaioannou
Production Support: COMM'ON
. . . .
When: Spring 2025
Where: Kasos Island
The documentary was filmed in Kasos in May 2025 with the participation of the local community. It is a production of the Municipality of Kasos, implemented with the support and funding of the Hellenic Ministry of Culture.