Rodia, Malevizi

Rodia (Ροδιά) is a village and the seat of the Rodia Municipal Community, in the Malevizi Municipality, Heraklion Regional Unit, Crete, Greece. It is situated on the eastern slopes of a hill, at an altitude of 300 meters, overlooking the city of Heraklion and its bay. The village is located approximately 16 km southwest of Heraklion.

Etymology

The name Rodia is believed to be derived from the Venetian word “Chiera Rodea,” which was the name of the Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary located in the village.

History

• Early Mentions: The village is first mentioned in 1248 as “Rodea,” in connection with a pastureland belonging to the Sfakas Monastery. It also appears as “Chera Rodea” in a 1395 document from the Ducal Archive of Chandakas (Heraklion).
• Venetian Period: Although not mentioned in Venetian censuses, the existence of the village during Venetian rule is evidenced by a surviving tower, which was the manor house of the feudal lord and scholar Antonios Kallergis, brother of Matthaios Kallergis. The manor and the adjacent church bear the coat of arms of the Kallergis family. Antonios and Matthaios left for Venice and leased their estate and manor to the brothers Georgios and Fragiskos Modinos, who are mentioned as feudal lords of this part of the Malevizi province from 1565. This manor has been declared a preserved monument and is now owned by the Greek state.
• Ottoman Period: Rodia is recorded in the Ottoman census of 1671 as “Rodya” in the province of Malevizi.
• Modern Era: The village continued to be primarily agricultural throughout the modern era, with residents engaged in viticulture, olive cultivation, vegetable farming, and citrus fruit production. In 1998, the creation of a fishing shelter in Rogdia was approved.

Economy

The main economic activities in Rodia are agriculture and tourism. The village is known for its production of grapes, olives, vegetables, and citrus fruits. In recent years, Rodia has also become a popular destination for gastronomy tourism, attracting visitors with its traditional tavernas offering local cuisine and stunning views of the surrounding area.

Landmarks

• Venetian Manor of the Modinos Family: Also known as the Kallergis Tower, this 15th-century manor is a characteristic example of Venetian architecture. It was declared a preserved monument and is now used for cultural events and exhibitions.
• Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary: This old church, from which the village took its name, dates back to at least 1553, as evidenced by an inscription above its lintel.
• Fraskia Bay: Located below and slightly north of the village, this bay was used by the Venetians when they could not use the port of Chandakas. Venetian troops landed here in 1364 to suppress the revolt of the Republic of St. Titus.

Culture and Traditions

• Religious Festivities: The village celebrates religious holidays with traditional festivities, including the feast day of the Church of the Annunciation of the Virgin Mary.
• Cultural Events: The Cultural Association of Rogdia organizes various cultural events throughout the year, including traditional music and dance performances, exhibitions, and lectures.

Family and Social Life

• Close-Knit Community: Rodia is a small village with a close-knit community, where residents maintain strong family and social ties.
• Traditional Values: The village retains traditional Cretan values, with an emphasis on family, hospitality, and community spirit.

Infrastructure

The village has a regional medical office, a kindergarten, and a primary school.

Settlement: Key Points

• Historical References: First mentioned in 1248 as “Rodea.”
• Location: Eastern slopes of a hill, 16 km southwest of Heraklion, Crete, Greece.
• Historical Significance: Venetian manor, Ottoman presence, agricultural tradition.
• Population Data:

• Current Status: A village with a mixed economy of agriculture and tourism, retaining traditional character.

References

• Wikipedia