In the 1740’s an early descendant of the Barliakos family owned a ship in the port of Galaxidi. The ships main trading route was from Galaxidi, in the rich gulf of Itea to Malta, a relatively barren island strategically located in the south mediterranean. Olives, oil and wine from Amfissa and Itea, as well fruit and cheeses were all sent from Galaxidi to Malta. But on the way back, Malta had no goods to offer so the ship returned empty. With the prospect of sailing upwind from Malta to Galaxidi, the captain decided to take stones from Malta to use as ballast in his ship. The first such trip is reported to have happened in 1742 and it resulted in a small pile of stones at the end of the port in Galaxidi. As the years went by, after a great many trips downwind to Malta and upwind back to Galaxidi, a great pile of stones lay at the east end of the port and the Captain decided to put them to use. He purchased a plot on the outskirts of town and built The Malta House. Over the past 300 years, the house has been divided and is now split between Elias of the Barliakos family, a 92 year old Shepard and the Goodman family, new in Galaxidi after arriving in 2022. The beam you see when you walk in is the ship's mast! We have restored it according to strict Greek standards and it is not once again ready for life! We envision entire families being able to stay together under one roof. There are plenty of beds for everyone. There is room around the kitchen island for indoor eating or a table and chairs outdoors. With families in mind, there is a complete kitchen with stovetop and oven. There are supplies for making your morning cups and equipment to do your own cooking, Our steep wooden steps are custom built to resemble those of a ship. Enjoy the warm atmosphere of our shipping community!

Gayla and her husband are artists. You will find many of their pieces inside the home. Painted plates, pottery, mobiles and paintings for a start! Their love for the sea brought their family to Galaxidi..

We are in a residential community, most of whom are related to the sailors who gave life to this city. They are kind and respectful neighbors who expect the same from us.