Gianniou, Agios Vassilios

Gianniou is a small village located in the Rethymno regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It is part of the Lefkogia municipal district, in the municipality of Agios Vasileios. The village is situated at an altitude of 180 meters and is 36 kilometers from Rethymno, on the road to Preveli.

Historical Overview

The village has a long history, dating back to at least the 16th century. It is first mentioned in 1577 by Fr. Barozzi as “Gagniù.” In 1583, the Venetian census recorded it as “Giagniu” with 184 inhabitants.

• In 1925, Gianniou became one of the five settlements that formed the newly established community of Lefkogia.
• In 1928, it was briefly attached to the community of Asomatos, but this decision was quickly reversed, and Gianniou remained part of Lefkogia.

Name Origins

The village’s name is believed to be connected to a prominent livestock farmer named Giannis (a common Greek name, often shortened to Gianniou). His prominence in the small community likely led to the settlement taking on his name.

Religious Sites

Gianniou has several religious sites, including:

• The Byzantine church of Agios Georgios (Saint George), which has been renovated and whitewashed by the parishioners. Some frescoes are still preserved on the north wall and the north section of the arch.
• The church of Panagia (Virgin Mary), where a Venetian bell was reportedly found.
• The newer churches of Agia Paraskevi (Saint Paraskevi), Agios Antonios (Saint Anthony), and Timios Stavros (Holy Cross).

Education

A primary school operated in Gianniou from 1937 until the 1984-85 school year. The school was built in 1929 with state funding. Today, students from Gianniou attend the primary school in Plakias, along with students from neighboring villages.

Occupations

The inhabitants of Gianniou are primarily engaged in agriculture, olive growing, and livestock farming. During the difficult years of World War II and the Axis occupation of Greece, many poor farmers in the village and surrounding areas entered into an agreement with the Preveli Monastery called “chorafoskepase.” This agreement allowed them to cultivate the monastery’s land, giving a portion of their harvest to the monastery as rent while keeping the rest for themselves.

Settlement: Key Points

• Location: Gianniou is a village in the Rethymno regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece.
• Historical Significance: The village has a history dating back to at least the 16th century, with documented presence in various censuses and historical records.
• Current Status: Today, Gianniou remains a small village with a declining population, primarily engaged in traditional agricultural activities.

Population Data

References

• RethNea