Zakros, Siteia

Zakros is a village and the seat of a namesake community in the municipality of Sitia in the Lasithi region on the east coast of Crete. The ruins of the ancient Minoan city of Zakros are located in the area and today constitute an important archaeological site of the Minoan civilization. It is considered to have been one of the four main administrative centers of the Minoans, while its protected harbor and strategic location made it an important commercial hub for trade to the east.

Geography

Zakros is sometimes divided into¹ Ano Zakros (Upper Zakros), the part located higher on the hill, and Kato Zakros (Lower Zakros), the part near the sea. A gorge, known as the “Gorge of the Dead”, runs through both the upper and lower parts of the ancient city and is named after the numerous Minoan Age tombs found in the caves along its sides. Ano Zakros is 38 kilometers from Sitia. The road passes through Palaikastro, where it then heads south. The current municipal district of Zakros includes the settlements of Kato Zakros, Adravastoi, Azoke Ramos, Kellaria, Klisidion, Agios Georgios, and Sfaka.

History

The area around Zakros has been inhabited since the Minoan period. The archaeological site of Zakros was an important Minoan palace center, and was destroyed around 1450 BC. The village of Zakros was probably founded in the Byzantine period.

During the Ottoman period, Zakros was a small village. In the 19th century, the village grew in size and importance, and became a center for agriculture and trade.

After the union of Crete with Greece in 1913, Zakros continued to grow and develop. Today, the village is a popular tourist destination, and is known for its beautiful scenery, its traditional architecture, and its friendly people.

Economy

The village of Zakros is located 38 km southeast of Sitia and 7 km from the Minoan site. The population of 800 inhabitants is engaged in agriculture and especially in the cultivation of olives. The best olive oil in all of Crete is produced in the area. In the upper side of the village, there are springs whose water was the driving force for the many watermills of the village.

Culture and Traditions

The culture and traditions of Zakros are deeply rooted in the history of the village. The residents of Zakros have a strong sense of community, and they are proud of their heritage. The village is known for its traditional music and dance, and for its delicious local cuisine.

One of the most important cultural events in Zakros is the annual festival of Agios Andreas (Saint Andrew), which is celebrated on November 30th. The festival is a time for celebration and feasting, and it is an opportunity for the residents of Zakros to come together and celebrate their shared culture.

Another important cultural tradition in Zakros is the production of olive oil. The village is known for its high-quality olive oil, which is produced using traditional methods. The olive harvest is an important event in the village, and it is a time for celebration and community spirit.

Family and Social Life

Family and social life are very important in Zakros. The residents of Zakros have a strong sense of family, and they are very supportive of each other. The village is a close-knit community, and everyone knows everyone else.

Social life in Zakros revolves around the family and the community. There are many social events and gatherings throughout the year, and the residents of Zakros enjoy spending time with each other.

The residents of Zakros are also very hospitable to visitors. They are always happy to share their culture and traditions with others, and they are always willing to help out in any way they can.

Points of Interest

Archaeological Site: The ruins of the Minoan palace of Zakros are a popular tourist destination and an important archaeological site.
Gorge of the Dead: This gorge is named after the numerous Minoan Age tombs found in the caves along its sides.
Water Museum: The Water Museum of Zakros houses a collection of artifacts and tools related to the history of water use in the area.
Folklore Museum: The Folklore Museum of Zakros displays exhibits on the traditional way of life in the region.
Beaches: Kato Zakros has a beautiful beach that is popular with tourists. The nearby beach of Xerokambos is also worth visiting.
Hiking: The area around Zakros offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region. The European path E4 passes through Zakros.

Settlement: Key Points

Zakros is located on the east coast of Crete, in the municipality of Sitia, Lasithi region.
It was once an important Minoan settlement, with a palace that was one of the four main administrative centers of the Minoans.
The village is known for its archaeological site, the Gorge of the Dead, its beaches, and its watermills.
The population of Zakros has fluctuated over the years, with a peak of 800 in 1991.
The current population is around 644 (2021).