Nteres, Platanias

A Village in the Cretan Countryside

Deres is a village located in the municipality of Platanias, in the Chania regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It sits at an altitude of 146 meters above sea level and is situated approximately 30 kilometers southwest of the city of Chania.

Agriculture and Economy

The village is surrounded by fertile land, and its economy has traditionally been based on agriculture. Olive oil production is the primary agricultural activity, with the cultivation of oranges and chestnuts also playing a significant role. Winemaking and beekeeping are practiced on a smaller scale, providing additional sources of income for the villagers. While the area is suitable for livestock farming, it is not a major part of the local economy. In the past, the production of charcoal was also a significant source of income for the village.

Origin of the Name

The name “Deres” is of Turkish origin and means “valley” or “ravine,” reflecting the village’s geographical location within a valley. This name likely came into use during the Ottoman period of Crete’s history (1669-1898).

Historical Names and Early History

Local residents have passed down stories suggesting that the village was known by different names in the past. One such name is “Agoustos,” possibly linked to a record in the church of Agia Kyriaki that mentions a “village Anousto” with the date 1873. Another name associated with the village is “Lako Darmado,” potentially of Venetian origin.

Before Crete’s union with Greece in 1913, Deres belonged to the community of Vatolakkos in the municipality of Alikianos. During that time, the primary connection to the main city of Chania was through Vatolakkos, as the provincial road connecting Deres to Maleme was not opened until after 1946. Today, Deres forms its own community, which also includes the settlement of Papadiana.

While the exact founding date is unknown, local tradition suggests that Deres was established around 300 years ago. The first inhabitants were likely Cretans from neighboring villages such as Prases and Skafi. Among the oldest families in the village are the Mathioudakis and Kamisakis families.

Layout and Architecture

The houses in Deres are spread out, not clustered in a dense center. The village comprises several small neighborhoods, including:

• Markouliana
• Digaliana
• Kotsifiana
• Metochi
• Daskaliana
• Garofaliana
• Kamisiana
• Karamiana

During the Ottoman period, a Turkish Agha (local ruler) resided in the village. His former residence, a building of significant architectural interest, still stands today. It features corridors, an inner courtyard, spacious rooms, storage areas for grain and olive oil, and a unique grape press.

While the Agha was an Ottoman official, the architectural style of his residence is Venetian, suggesting it was built during the earlier Venetian period (1204-1669). The current owner, who uses the building as an olive press, has reportedly found a marble plaque with a relief of a lion (a symbol of the Venetian Republic) and a marble fountain, further supporting its Venetian origins.

The building is two stories high, with the second floor exhibiting a different architectural style, possibly indicating that it was added or modified during the Ottoman period. Other wealthy Turks also resided in the village, and remnants of their houses can still be found. After their departure, Greeks purchased their properties and built their own homes, contributing to the dispersed layout of the village.

The Lost Settlement of Kares

Approximately 500 meters north of the last house in Deres, there are ruins of a settlement in a location known as Kares. Local tradition recounts that a large village once existed there but was wiped out by an epidemic, possibly the plague, which was said to have been brought to the village by a diseased chicken carried by a hawk.

Natural Spring and World War II

In the Kamisiana area, there is a natural spring known for its water’s ability to dissolve mineral deposits. During the German occupation of Crete in World War II, a British outpost was stationed in the village.

Churches

Deres has several churches, all of which are well-maintained:

• Church of the Metamorphosis: Located in the Metochi area, this church exists in both an old and a new structure. The original church dates back to the period before the Ottoman rule.
• Agios Ioannis: Situated in the Kares area.
• Agia Kyriaki
• Agios Antonios

Village Key Points

• Historical References: Possible former names include “Agoustos” and “Lako Darmado.” Historical records suggest a connection to the village of Vatolakkos during the late Ottoman and early Greek periods.
• Location: Chania regional unit, Crete, Greece. Approximately 30 km southwest of Chania city.
• Altitude: 146 meters above sea level.
• Historical Significance: Evidence of both Venetian and Ottoman-era architecture. Local tradition suggests a long history, possibly dating back 300 years.
• Population: Currently around 200 residents. No detailed historical population data is available.
• Current Status: An active agricultural village with a small population. Remains a relatively quiet and traditional community.

Reference

• ellinismos.gr