Agios Georgios Xifoforos
Agios Georgios Xifoforos, a mid-13th-century Byzantine church located near Apodoulou in Crete's Amari region, boasts well-preserved frescoes and a single-aisled, barrel-vaulted architecture. Dedicated to Saint George (Xifoforos), the church exemplifies Byzantine art and religious traditions. Its frescoes offer valuable insights into the cultural and artistic practices of the era. The church's history, potentially linked to a monastery, remains partially unclear. Today, it serves as a place of worship and pilgrimage, open to visitors interested in Byzantine architecture and religious art.
Ancient Axos (Oaxos)
Oaxos, also known as Axos, was an ancient Cretan city in the Mylopotamos region, inhabited from the Neolithic to the Venetian period. It was known for its strategic location, association with the Idaean Cave, and connections with cities like Knossos and Eleutherna.
Archaeological findings reveal remnants from various periods, including cyclopean walls, terracotta idols, and bronze molds. Oaxos participated in interstate contracts and had its own coinage, featuring Apollo, Artemis, and Zeus, reflecting religious beliefs. The city was a member of the Cretan "Koinon."
Oaxos was eventually destroyed by the Venetians. Today, only a few ruins remain, with some artifacts housed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
Ancient Rizinia
Rhizenia, also known as Prinias, was a city in central Crete during the Late Minoan IIIC period (around 1200 BC). Located on the Patela plateau, it held a strategic position overlooking key communication routes. Rhizenia likely played a crucial role in the region's political and economic landscape. The necropolis of Siderospilia has revealed much about burial practices and social structures of the time. The city's political system was unique, possibly incorporating both aristocratic and democratic elements. Archaeological investigations have revealed insights into urban layout, religious practices, and daily life. Imported artifacts from Cyprus and Egypt underscore Rhizenia's integration into a wider network of exchange during the Early Iron Age.
Axos, Mylopotamos
Axos, located in the Mylopotamos Municipality in Crete, Greece, is a village steeped in history. It sits on the slopes of Mount Psiloritis, offering panoramic views. In ancient times, the city of Oaxos thrived in this location, leaving behind ruins of an acropolis, temples, and tombs. Axos flourished during the Byzantine era, as evidenced by the nine remaining churches dating back to that period. The village also boasts a medieval fountain and over ten natural springs. Today, Axos is a destination for agritourism and those interested in exploring the ancient city of Oaxos. The population of Axos has fluctuated over the centuries, with 385 residents recorded in the 2011 census.
Ideon Antro cave
Now closed
Ideon Antron Cave, also known as "Spiliara" or "Cave of the Shepherdess," is located high on the slopes of Mount Ida on the Nida Plateau, Crete, 20 km from Anogia village at 1498 meters above sea level. In Greek mythology, this is where Rhea hid Zeus from Cronus. Archaeological excavations have revealed a rich history of human activity, dating back to the Neolithic period. The cave was used for worship for centuries, with peak activity during the Geometric and Archaic periods. It's open to the public from July to November, except on Tuesdays.
Koules in Magarikari
The Koules of Grammeni, also known as the Koules of Grigoria or Magarikari, is an Ottoman fortress in Crete, Greece. Built in the late 19th century during the Great Cretan Revolution (1866-1869), it was strategically positioned between the villages of Grigoria and Magarikari overlooking the Messara Plain. Measuring 25 meters by 11 meters, with 24 embrasures, it was used as a stronghold by the Ottomans to maintain control over the rebellious Cretan population. In May 1944, it provided refuge to the villagers of Magarikari during the German occupation. Today, the Koules of Grammeni stands as a well-preserved reminder of Crete's turbulent past and the island's enduring spirit.
Mouses abandoned village
Mouses, an abandoned village near Mourtzana in Rethymno, Crete, reflects the island's rural past. The village's history likely mirrored other Cretan settlements, with population fluctuations due to historical events and economic shifts. Abandoned watermills highlight Mouses's role as a center for milling grain in the pre-industrial era, crucial for producing flour and other grain-based products. The village's current state reflects the rural depopulation seen in Crete during the 20th century. Mouses stands as a testament to the passage of time, with its abandoned watermills offering a glimpse into traditional practices. Although no longer inhabited, Mouses retains historical significance, providing a resource for understanding Crete's rural past.
Palaiokastro Fortress: Guardian of Heraklion Bay
The Palaiokastro Fortress, built by Venetians (1573-1595) on a cliff overlooking Palaiokastro Beach near Heraklion, Crete, defended Heraklion Bay. Its three levels housed powder magazines, a cistern, barracks, and a chapel. The winged lion of St. Mark on its walls signifies Venetian heritage. Captured by Ottomans in the Cretan War (1645-1669), the fortress was documented in the 1900s by G. Gerola. Now partly ruined, it's undergoing restoration.
Sklavokambos
The Sklavokampos Farm Estate, a significant Late Minoan period archaeological site in Crete, Greece, offers a unique window into Minoan life. Discovered in 1930, the estate is located southwest of Heraklion, near Tylissos. The estate's strategic location near the Minoan road network and the fertile Messara Plain suggests it played a crucial role in agricultural production and trade. The estate's architecture is simpler than Minoan palaces, featuring 17 rooms across three levels. The site includes a main room with artifacts like a clay ox head, a Late Minoan IB jug, and a stone rhyton. Sealings from Sklavokampos have been found at other Minoan sites such as Zakros, Gournia, and Hagia Triada, indicating connections across Crete. The estate also housed a small shrine, storerooms for agricultural products, and a toilet with an underground drain. Evidence suggests the estate was part of a larger settlement destroyed by fire, possibly during the Late Minoan IB period.
Vrontisi monastery
Moni Vrontisiou, a historic monastery in the Psiloritis Mountains of Crete, dates back to the 9th century. Dedicated to Saint Anthony and the Touching of Thomas, it is known for its architecture and frescoes. The monastery played a role in the Cretan struggle for independence, serving as a refuge for monks and a hub for revolutionary activities. Its fortified walls, two-story main building, and bell tower stand as a testament to its history. The 15th-century marble fountain at the entrance is a highlight, featuring intricate carvings. The main church houses surviving frescoes from the 14th century. Moni Vrontisiou is located 49 kilometers southwest of Heraklion and is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with free admission.
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Geotour website by Nikolakakis Manolis is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Geotour website by Nikolakakis Manolis is licensed under CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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