Drosia, also known as Yeni Gave (meaning “New Cafe”), is a village within the Chonos community in the Mylopotamos Municipality, located in the Rethymno regional unit of Crete. The village is situated 44.5 km from Rethymno and 33.5 km from Heraklion, at an altitude of 300 meters, along the old national road connecting Heraklion and Rethymno. In the past, before the construction of the national road connecting the four major cities of Crete, Yeni Gave (now Drosia) was a stopping point and resting place for travelers.
Historical Significance
Drosia’s historical significance lies in its role as a resting stop and social hub along the old national road during the early 20th century. The construction of the new national road in 1971 led to a decline in traffic and the village’s importance as a transit point. However, it retains its historical charm with the Ottoman fountain and the remnants of its past as a bustling traveler’s stop.
Historical References
Drosia’s foundation is tied to the Ottoman era, when a Turkish commander, Han Alis, established a cafe and fountain at this strategic location along the old Heraklion-Rethymno road. This initiative fostered the growth of a settlement around this vital rest stop.The village’s name underwent several changes, reflecting the socio-political climate of the times. It was initially known as Yeni Gave (“New Cafe”), then briefly as Nea Axos after the events in Cyprus, before finally settling on Drosia in 1964, inspired by its refreshing plane tree canopy.
Population Data Over the Years
The population data reveals a pattern of growth and decline linked to the village’s changing fortunes. The peak population of 148 in 1961 likely coincided with the peak activity along the old national road. The subsequent decline reflects the impact of the new road’s construction.
Year |
Population |
|---|---|
1951 |
77 |
1961 |
148 |
1971 |
97 |
1981 |
71 |
1991 |
55 |
2001 |
40 |
2011 |
40 |
Current Status
Despite its diminished size, Drosia maintains a vibrant community spirit and a population of 40. The village’s taverns, known for their grilled meats, attract visitors from the surrounding areas. The Ottoman fountain and the plane trees continue to offer a sense of place and connection to the village’s history.
Village Key Points
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Historical References: The village’s origins trace back to the Ottoman period when a Turkish commander built a cafe (Yeni Gave) and a fountain, attracting travelers along the old road between Heraklion and Rethymno
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Location: Situated in the Mylopotamos province, along the old national road connecting Heraklion and Rethymno.
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Current Status: Drosia remains a small settlement with a population of 40. It is known for its Ottoman-era fountain and plane trees. The village features the churches of Agia Agapi and Agia Triada.
Access
Drosia is 5.9 kilometers away from the town Anogeia and 4.7 kilometers away from Axos.
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