The Cistern of Kampos – Valsami, located in Mastoratika or Valsameika, is a remarkable example of British-era engineering on Paxos. Constructed between 1859 and 1862, this cistern played a crucial role in meeting the water needs of the Mastoratika and Argyratika areas. Above its entrance, two columns proudly bear the inscription: “Constructed by Royal Magnanimity 1862,” written in both English and Greek, symbolizing the generosity of the British administration.
Community Involvement
The construction of the cistern was a community effort. Local families volunteered materials like sand, lime, and stones to support the project. However, the ambitious goal of enlarging the cistern required more resources than originally planned. The island’s population united to donate around 20 talers, a significant contribution that demonstrates the cistern’s importance to the community. This collaborative spirit is documented in two agreements from October 1858, preserved in the Paxos Archives.
Foundation and Inauguration
The foundation stone was laid on June 22, 1859, with a grand ceremony attended by local officials, including Lane, the land surveyor of His Excellency, and Aloisios Velianitis, the Prefect. A consecration was performed by Most Holy Lord Dionysios, highlighting the spiritual and cultural significance of the project.
Historical Significance
The Kampos Cistern is not only an essential part of Paxos’ water infrastructure but also a symbol of the cooperation between the British administration and the local population. Its enduring presence stands as a reminder of the island’s ability to adapt to its water scarcity challenges through ingenuity and communal effort. Visitors today can appreciate the cistern as both a functional historical monument and a testament to the island’s rich history of collaboration and resilience.
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