Drimiskos, Agios Vassilios

Drimiskos (Δρίμισκος), formerly also spelled Drymiskos, is a village in the Rethymno regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It is part of the municipality of Agios Vasileios.

Geography

Drimiskos is situated on the southern slopes of Mount Xiro, at an altitude of 440 meters. It is located 45 km south of Rethymno and 10 km from Kissou Kambos. The village is surrounded by a landscape of hills and valleys, typical of the region.

History

The village was likely founded during the Venetian period, around the 14th century, as evidenced by the church of Panagia.

• 1577: First documented mention of Drimiskos.
• 1583: Drimiskos recorded as having 316 inhabitants.
• 1823: The village was burned down by Turkish forces.
• 1867: Resit Pasha again destroyed the village and tragically executed about 200 children from the surrounding villages near Preveli Monastery.
• 1879: Drimiskos became part of the municipality of Agios Pnevmatos.
• 1902: Drimiskos had 233 inhabitants and belonged to the municipality of Lampi.
• 1925: Became the seat of its own community.
• 2008: Drimiskos was severely affected by a wildfire.

Drimiskos has a rich history of resistance against foreign occupation. During the Cretan revolts of the 19th century, several local chieftains from Drimiskos participated in the uprisings against the Ottoman Empire. In 1867, a clash took place near Drimiskos between revolutionaries and Ottoman forces. During World War II and the German occupation, ten residents of the village were killed. Several families from Drimiskos also sheltered and helped about 30 British soldiers who were trapped on Crete after the island was captured by the German troops.

Economy

Historically, the village’s economy was based on agriculture and livestock farming. The surrounding hills and valleys provided fertile land for crops and grazing. However, like many rural villages in Crete, Drimiskos has experienced a decline in population in recent decades, leading to a decrease in agricultural activity.

Culture and Traditions

• Religion: The main church of the village is dedicated to Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) and was built in 1920. Other notable churches include the church of Panagia, with frescoes dating back to the 14th century, and the church of Agios Konstantinos, which has frescoes from the early 15th century.

Family and Social Life

Drimiskos is a small, tight-knit community where family ties and social connections are important. While the village has seen a decline in population, those who remain maintain a strong sense of community and tradition.

Points of Interest

• Church of Panagia: This 14th-century church features well-preserved frescoes and is an important religious site for the village.
• Church of Agios Konstantinos: Another historic church with frescoes dating back to the 15th century.
• Surrounding Nature: The village’s location on the slopes of Mount Xiro offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the area.

Settlement: Key Points

• Historical References: First mentioned in 1577.
• Location: Southern slopes of Mount Xiro, 45 km south of Rethymno, Crete, Greece.
• Historical Significance: Played a role in Cretan revolts against the Ottomans.
• Population Data:

• Current Status: A small village with a declining population, but maintaining a strong sense of community.

References

• Wikipedia
• RethNea