DOMUS K 1885
Wine Tasting - Art Gallery - Museum
The Story of Kadio Sigalas -
The Woman Behind Domus K 1885
Domus K 1885 is more than an art gallery and wine experience - it is a historic home connected to one of Santorini’s most remarkable women. This page tells the story of Kadio Sigalas, whose life shaped the heritage of the house and the maritime history of Oia.
Early Life in Oia
Born Into the Maritime Tradition of Santorini
Kadio Nomikou was born in Oia, Santorini in 1885, into a family deeply connected to the sea. Her father, Captain Georgios Nomikos, sailed his schooner across the Mediterranean, exporting Santorini’s famous sweet wine - Vinsanto, to Russia. As his first daughter, she inherited vineyards, property, gold coins and precious heirlooms, placing her early within the island’s maritime and commercial life.
Marriage & Family
Marriage to Captain Georgios Sigalas and Family Life
At the age of fifteen, Kadio married local captain Georgios Sigalas, continuing her life within Santorini’s naval community. Together they raised fourteen children, seven of whom survived. Beyond her responsibilities as a mother and wife, Kadio supported sailors’ families, crews and the wider community of Oia, Santorini earning respect for her generosity and leadership.
A Pioneer in Shipping
A Woman Shipowner in a Male-Dominated World
During the early 20th century, Kadio Sigalas became actively involved in the family shipping business. The Sigalas fleet expanded from sailing vessels to passenger ships serving the Cyclades Islands from Piraeus. Despite having only a primary school education, she negotiated with politicians, bankers, officials and eventually commanded and directed her own ships - a remarkable achievement for a woman of her era in Greece.
Growth, War & Rebuilding
From Sailing Ships to Steamships
In 1922 the family established Sigalas House in Oia and later moved operations to Piraeus, investing in steamships that strengthened the company’s future. The war brought devastating losses and Kadio became the first female Greek shipowner to lose her entire fleet. With determination and courage, she rebuilt the business once again, proving her resilience and leadership.
Legacy
Her Legacy Lives On at Domus K 1885
Kadio Sigalas passed away on July 2, 1967, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance and vision. She opened the path for women to participate in the Greek shipping industry and inspired future generations. Today, her historic residence in Oia, Santorini lives on as Domus K 1885, where visitors can experience the history, culture and spirit of her remarkable life.
