This study is concerned with the analysis and restoration of a fortified building known as the Metochi, which is situated at a distance of only a few metres from the village of Maroulas near Rethymno. It can be assumed that the building’s history started towards the end of the Venetian occupation (17th century). The buildings of that period have not yet been evaluated to a satisfying degree, with the result that there has practically not been any protection at all (particularly in Crete). Its architecture represents the local society of previous centuries, which was exclusively dependent on the production of oil due to the favourable position of the settlement at the foot of the olive groves.
The Metochi consists of two levels. The groundfloor hosts all the spaces for storage, the stables and the oil factory. The entire upper floor was used as residental space. Because of the large degree of destruction, the exact use of each space cannot be determined. However, we can distinguish the "hamam" and the Turkish bath. Since the records do not refer to any data concerning this building, we had to rely on both our observations on the site and the comparison of this building with other examples of which data are known. The fact is that the architectural stages of the building cover the entire period of the Turkish presence on the island. Today, the general picture of the Metochi is that of bad preservation. The first signs of negligence appeared in 1924, when refugees from Asia Minor took over the building. The new inhabitants did not have the financial means to proceed to a methodical preservation. This situation worsened after the southern part of the building was bombed during World War II, which inflicted great damage. However, despite the misfortune this building suffered, the static framework of the remaining parts is in a considerably good condition.
The suggestion of re-using the building includes the establishment of a cafe/ restaurant on the ground floor, while the upper floor can be used as a guesthouse. This seemed to be the best feasible and suitable solution after having taken into consideration both the analysis and the use of buildings in the settlement of today. Since the initial use of the spaces cannot be proved, the interior partition of the spaces will take place based on their new function, while at the same time efforts will be made to maintain those spaces, the former use of which could be determined. The fortified character of the complex does not allow for any important architectural interventions. Thus we have decided to realize a moderate reconstruction of the destroyed parts, which will vary as little as possible from the preserved parts. The exterior spaces will be given the necessary shape in order to allow access, while the outdoor space of the restaurant is provided at the south east side.