Cyclades Olive Museum (Helmis' Olive Mill)

The Olive Mill of Pitrofos, also known as “vida” (=bolt) of Pitrofos, is part of a two-storey building. It is a fine example of a small pre-industrial and animal-powered oil extraction unit. Many such industries can be found on the mountains of Andros. They operated during the ‘60s and served the local market. The particular olive mill is quite particular. Contrary to the majority of olive mills, Pitrofos oil press consists of many departments. The building dates back well before 1857. Items like three violins, two mill stones and other structural details of the building serve as proof that the mill was functional during the 18th century. It was resold (along with the house on the top floor) in 1857.

It has a meticulous exterior and a stone masonry interior with interesting features such as arches, a fireplace, a stone cauldron, a cistern, stone stairways etc. These are all characteristics of rural Andros and reminders of how aesthetics combine with functionality in Cyclades.

Open hours

  • Sunday 10.00 – 12.00
  • or after contacting the museum
Cyclades Olive Museum, Ano Pitrofos, 84500, Andros
6932731776 (Χελμής Δημήτριος)