Epanochori, Kandanos – Selino

Epanochori, also known as Apanochori, is a village located in the White Mountains of Crete, within the municipality of Kantanos-Selino, Chania regional unit. It sits at an altitude of 600 meters and is situated approximately 45 kilometers southwest of Chania town. Historically part of the Selino province, Epanochori is known for its mountainous landscape, traditional character, and historical connections to the ancient city of Elyros.

Historical Overview

Ancient Era: The area around Epanochori was within the territory of the ancient city of Elyros, which flourished during the Hellenistic and Roman periods. Elyros was organized into small agricultural settlements that were dependent on the main city. Archaeological evidence from Epanochori supports this, with the accidental discovery of a built tomb from the Roman period in the Seisia area. Inside the tomb, archaeologists found gold jewelry, ceramic and glass vessels for funerary use, and a lead plate.

Venetian Era: Epanochori is mentioned in Venetian records as early as 1577 by Francesco Barozzi (as “Lacus Apano”). The Venetian census of 1583 by Castrofylaka lists it as “Lacus Apanocori.” In this census, Epanochori is recorded together with Agia Irini and Sfourarfiana, having a combined population of 556. Francesco Basilicata, in 1630, refers to the village as “Lacus Gurali” or “Sfurafi.”

Ottoman Era: A census conducted by the Egyptians in 1834 lists Epanochori (“Epano-Khorio”) as having an entirely Christian population of 30 families. In 1881, it belonged to the municipality of Kampanos and had a population of 261. By 1900, the population had grown to 308.

20th Century: In 1920, Epanochori became the seat of its own rural municipality. This status changed in 1925 when it was designated as the seat of a community, which it remained until the Kapodistrian administrative reform of 1997. At that time, Epanochori was incorporated into the municipality of Anatoliko Selino (East Selino), which later became part of the municipality of Kantanos-Selino.

Population Data

Economy

The economy of Epanochori is primarily based on livestock farming, particularly sheep and goats. The surrounding mountainous terrain provides grazing land for the animals. Along the road that passes through the village, there are several tavernas and cafes catering to visitors and locals.

Notable Figure

Georgios Krokidis, a leader of the Anatoliko Selino region during the Cretan revolts of the 19th century (1841, 1858, 1866), was from Epanochori.

Village Key Points

• Historical References: Mentioned in Venetian records as early as 1577. Historically connected to the ancient city of Elyros.
• Location: Chania regional unit, Crete, Greece. 45 km southwest of Chania town, in the White Mountains.
• Altitude: 600 meters above sea level.
• Historical Significance: Evidence of Roman-era settlement. Played a role in the Cretan revolts against Ottoman rule.
• Current Status: A small, quiet village with an economy based on livestock farming and tourism.