Elenes is a village and the seat of the homonymous community in the Amari Municipality, in the Rethymno regional unit of Crete, Greece. It is located 37 kilometers southeast of Rethymno at an altitude of 640 meters.
Historical References
The village was first mentioned by Francesco Barozzi in 1577 as Selenes. In the Venetian census of 1583 by Castrofylakas, it is referred to as Ellenes with 147 inhabitants, and in the census of Basilicata in 1630, it is mentioned as Sante Elenes. The name likely refers to the existence of churches dedicated to Agia Eleni (Saint Helen).
In the 1834 census conducted by the Egyptians, 6 Christian and 4 Turkish families were recorded living in the village. In the 1881 census, it was mentioned as part of the Meronas municipality with 91 Christian inhabitants. In the 1900 census, it had 127 inhabitants. In the 1920 census, it is listed as part of the rural municipality of Gerakari. In 1925, Elenes was placed under the community of Gerakari, while in 1928, it was listed as a settlement of 124 inhabitants, mainly engaged in agricultural activities.
In 1935, the village became the seat of its own community in the Amari province until the Kapodistrian administrative division, when it was annexed to the Municipality of Sivritos. Since 2011, it has been part of the Amari Municipality.
Location & Dimensions
Elenes is located in the Amari valley, approximately 37 kilometers southeast of Rethymno. The village is situated at an altitude of 640 meters, surrounded by lush vegetation.
Historical Significance
Elenes boasts a rich history that dates back to prehistoric times, with archaeological findings attesting to the presence of Minoan civilization. The village also features significant Byzantine-era monuments, including the Church of Agios Nikolaos, adorned with 13th-century frescoes, and the ruins of the Church of the Transfiguration.
Population Data
Year |
Population |
|---|---|
1900 |
127 |
1920 |
115 |
1928 |
124 |
1940 |
134 |
1951 |
158 |
1961 |
111 |
1971 |
78 |
1981 |
75 |
1991 |
74 |
2001 |
91 |
2011 |
94 |
Current Status
Today, Elenes is a small village with a population of 94. The inhabitants are primarily engaged in agriculture. The village retains its traditional character, with some old buildings featuring arches, stone entrances, and courtyards. Elenes also attracts visitors interested in its historical and natural sites, such as the Church of Agios Nikolaos, the old primary school, and the surrounding scenic landscapes.
Village Key Points
- Historical References: The village’s name is believed to be derived from two nuns named Elenes who represented the Kaloidena Monastery. The village has a long history, with evidence of Minoan civilization and Byzantine-era monuments.
- Location: Elenes is situated in the Amari valley, 37 kilometers southeast of Rethymno, Crete.
- Historical Significance: The village has a rich history dating back to prehistoric times. Archaeological findings indicate the presence of Minoan civilization. The village also features significant Byzantine-era monuments, including the Church of Agios Nikolaos with its 13th-century frescoes.
- Population data over the years: The population has fluctuated over the years, with a peak of 262 inhabitants in 1940 and a decline to 45 in 2001. The 2011 census recorded 94 inhabitants.
- Current Status: Elenes is a small village primarily engaged in agriculture. It retains some of its traditional character and attracts visitors interested in its historical and natural beauty. The village faces challenges related to rural depopulation and the preservation of its cultural heritage.
Access
Elenes is 21.1 kilometers away from the town Rethymno and 0.7 kilometers away from Gerakari
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