Agridia, Mylopotamos

Agridia is a village in the Kryoneri Community of the Mylopotamos Municipality, located in the Rethymno regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. As of the 2011 census, the village has a population of 69, with a notable proportion being young people. Agridia is situated at an altitude of 340 meters, approximately 44 kilometers southeast of the city of Rethymno. The central church of the village is dedicated to Saint George and falls under the jurisdiction of the Third Archdiocese of the Holy Metropolis of Rethymno and Avlopotamos.

Historical References

The village of Agridia is first mentioned in a Venetian census from 1583. In 1881, it became part of the Damastas municipality. Later, it was placed under the community of Asyrota (later renamed Kryoneri) in the Mylopotamos province. In 1997, with the Kapodistrian administrative reform, it became part of the Kryoneri municipal district of the Kouloukonas municipality. Following the changes of the Kallikratis plan, it now belongs to the Mylopotamos municipality.The proximity of the historic Halepa Monastery adds a layer of religious and cultural significance to Agridia’s context. The monastery’s presence likely influenced the village’s development, shaping its social and spiritual landscape.

Historical Significance

Agridia’s historical significance lies in its representation of the numerous small villages that contribute to the rich tapestry of Cretan rural life. These communities, often overlooked in grand historical narratives, hold the key to understanding the island’s grassroots experiences and cultural traditions. The village’s resilience in the face of challenges, including depopulation and economic shifts, underscores the enduring spirit of its inhabitants and their commitment to preserving their heritage.

Population Data Over the Years

Current Status

In recent years, Agridia has seen a remarkable tendency: out of its 74 permanent residents, 27 are children under the age of 18. This is largely due to the decision of ten couples to remain in the village and raise their families there, defying the trend of rural depopulation. The influx of young families has breathed new life into the village, creating a sense of community and purpose. The active involvement of residents in the cultural association and their commitment to preserving traditions and fostering a vibrant social environment are key factors in Agridia’s positive trajectory.

The villagers, primarily engaged in agriculture and livestock farming, have successfully revitalized their community. They have formed a cultural association that organizes activities for children and encourages former residents to return, even if only for brief visits. The association is also working on creating a children’s library.

The presence of a large number of young people has injected new life into Agridia, offering a positive example for other small villages striving to retain their youth and preserve their heritage.

Village Key Points

• Historical References: First mentioned in 1583 Venetian census, associated with Halepa Monastery
• Location: Mylopotamos Municipality, Rethymno regional unit, Crete, Greece
• Altitude: 340 meters
• Current Status: Inhabited village with a growing population of young people