Eleftherna, Rethymno

Eleftherna is a village nestled in the Rethymno regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. The village is situated approximately 24 kilometers east of Rethymno at an elevation of 370 meters. The village’s location places it in the picturesque northern foothills of Mount Ida (Psiloritis), the highest mountain in Crete. The village shares its name with the ancient city of Eleutherna, the ruins of which are located close by. Additionally, Eleftherna is conveniently located five kilometers from the historic Arkadi Monastery. The area surrounding Eleftherna has been recognized for its natural and historical significance since 1972, being designated as a “landscape of exceptional natural beauty” and a protected archaeological site.

History

The village’s recorded history begins in the 1881 census, where it was listed as Anachourdo Metochia and was part of the Margarites municipality. The census indicated that the village had a solely Christian population of 181 residents at that time. In the subsequent 1900 census, the village’s name appeared as Anachourdometocha, still within the municipality of Eleutherae (Margarites), and its population had grown to 234. By the 1920 census, Eleftherna was recognized as the central village of its own rural municipality. Initially, it was included in the Prine community, but in 1930, it was designated as the seat of its own community, a status it maintained until the Kapodistrias administrative reform. During this reform, it was incorporated into the Municipality of Arkadi. Later, with the implementation of the Kallikratis plan, it became part of the Municipality of Rethymno.

Points of Interest

• Ancient Eleutherna: The archaeological site of ancient Eleutherna is a major attraction near the village, offering visitors a glimpse into the city’s rich history spanning from the Dark Ages to the Byzantine era.
• Museum of Ancient Eleutherna: This museum houses a collection of artifacts unearthed during the excavations at the archaeological site, providing further insights into the city’s past.
• Church of Agia Anna: The ruins of this single-nave church, adorned with remnants of frescoes, are also located near the village, adding to the area’s historical tapestry
• House of Petros Markantonakis: This 19th-century house stands as a typical example of local folk architecture in Crete, showcasing influences from the Venetian period. It has been officially recognized as a historical preserved monument.

Village Key Points

• Historical References: The village is first mentioned in the 1881 census. Its name is derived from the ancient city of Eleutherna.
• Location: Eleftherna is situated 24 kilometers east of Rethymno in Crete, Greece, on the northern foothills of Mount Ida.
• Historical Significance: The village is near the ruins of the ancient city of Eleutherna, an important archaeological site providing insights into Cretan history.
• Population data over the years:

• Current Status: Eleftherna is a small village with a population of 240 as of the 2021 census. It is known for its proximity to the ancient city of Eleutherna and its natural beauty.