Kalyvos is a village in the Mylopotamos municipality, located in the Rethymno regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. The village owes its name to the “kalyves” (huts), the first houses of the village that were built at a high altitude to avoid the Turks. During the Ottoman occupation, it was called Panohori (Upper Village) and later Nea Axos (New Axos), because it was located a short distance (5-6 km) from Axos.
Historical References
The village was first mentioned by Francesco Barozzi in 1577 as “Calivo” within the Mylopotamos province. The Venetian census of 1583 by Castrofylakas also lists it as “Calivo” with 133 inhabitants, and Francesco Basilicata refers to it as “Calivo” in 1630. The Ottoman census of 1671 recorded it as “Kalivyo” with 19 hearths (taxable households).
According to the 1881 census, it had 234 residents and belonged to the municipality of Garazo. In the 1900 census, it had 263 residents and was still under the same municipality. By 1920, it had been designated the seat of its own rural municipality. In 1926, it became the seat of the Kalyvos community, which remained until the Kapodistrian administrative division in 1997, when it was incorporated into the municipality of Kouloukonas.
The village’s connection to the Holocaust of Arkadi, a pivotal event in Cretan history, underscores its involvement in the island’s struggle for independence. The execution of three villagers at Vournolakos serves as a somber reminder of the sacrifices made by the local population during this turbulent period.
Location and Dimensions
Kalyvos is situated in the Mylopotamos municipality, nestled amidst the mountainous terrain of central Crete. Its location, 42 kilometers east of Rethymno and at an elevation of 560 meters, offers panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. The village is relatively small population and the presence of a single primary school suggest a compact settlement. The surrounding area encompasses natural landmarks such as the Rapané and Machi gorges, as well as Mount Porofokas, adding to the village’s scenic beauty.
Historical Significance
Kalyvos holds historical significance due to its continuous presence through Venetian and Ottoman rule, its connection to the Cretan struggle for independence, and its potential role as a fortified settlement during the Venetian era. The village’s architectural heritage, including the churches of the Taxiarchs and Saint Charalambos, the Dormition of the Theotokos, and the cemetery church of Saint George, reflects its rich cultural and religious traditions. The local folklore surrounding Mount Porofokas and the Tsoupa cave adds another layer to the village’s historical tapestry, intertwining myth and legend with its lived experience.
Population Data Over the Years
Year |
Population |
|---|---|
1900 |
263 |
1920 |
366 |
1928 |
373 |
1940 |
418 |
1951 |
442 |
1961 |
399 |
1971 |
456 |
1981 |
399 |
1991 |
– |
2001 |
408 |
2011 |
327 |
2021 |
279 |
Current Status
Kalyvos remains a small, tight-knit community, preserving its cultural traditions and historical heritage. The presence of a primary school indicates a commitment to education and the future of the village. The surrounding natural beauty, including the gorges and Mount Porofokas, offers opportunities for outdoor activities and ecotourism.
The central church of the Kalyvos parish is the two-aisled church of the Taxiarchs and Saint Charalambos. The church’s iconostasis dates back to 1816. The village’s cemetery church is dedicated to Saint George. Other churches in the village include those dedicated to the Holy Trinity and the Dormition of the Theotokos.
Village Key Points
- Historical References: Mentioned as “Calivo” in Venetian and Ottoman records.
- Location: 42 km east of Rethymno, altitude 560 meters.
- Historical Significance: Potential Venetian-era structures, linked to the Holocaust of Arkadi.
- Current Status: Village with a primary school, known for its churches and natural landmarks.
Access
Kalyvos is 8.3 kilometers away from the town Anogeia and 3.5 kilometers away from Garazo.
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