Kampanos, Kandanos – Selino

Kampanos, also known as Kampanou, 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 400 meters on a conical hill and is situated approximately 52 kilometers southwest of Chania town. Historically part of the Selino province, Kampanos is known for its agricultural traditions, pottery making, and historical remnants that span various periods.

Historical Overview

Ancient and Roman Eras: Archaeological findings suggest that the area around Kampanos has been inhabited since ancient times. In 1935, archaeologist J.D.S. Pendlebury documented the presence of objects from the Classical and Roman periods in the localities of Kalogiannis and Kamini, including the handle of a bronze tripod, Roman coins, and tombs within a carved cave.

Venetian Era: The village is mentioned in Venetian records as early as 1577 by Francesco Barozzi (as “Cabanù”). The Venetian census of 1583 by Castrofylaka also lists it as “Cabanù” with 69 inhabitants.

Ottoman Era: An Egyptian census in 1834 recorded 37 Christian and 1 Turkish family residing in Kampanos. In 1881, it was the seat of the Kampanos municipality and had a population of 291.

20th Century: Kampanos continued to grow in the early 20th century, reaching a population of 412 in 1900. It remained a significant village in the Selino province, serving as a center for trade and social activities. With the Kapodistrias program (1998-2010), it became part of the Anatoliko Selino (East Selino) municipality and served as its seat.

Population Data

Etymology

The origin of the name Kampanos is uncertain. One theory suggests that it is derived from the surname “Kampanas,” implying that the village was founded or owned by someone with that name. Another theory, proposed by Professor N. Tomadakis, suggests that the name comes from the “bell-shaped” (kampanisto) terrain of the area.

Economy

The residents of Kampanos are mainly involved in agriculture, with olive oil production being the primary activity. The village is surrounded by olive groves, and it is estimated that there are around 20,000 olive trees in the area, producing approximately 300 tons of olive oil annually. Kampanos is also known for its large olive trees, called “dekochtoures” because they yield 18 “mista” of oil (about 250 kilograms). Other agricultural products include wine, cereals, and livestock products. Pottery making is another traditional craft practiced in the village.

Points of Interest

Churches: Kampanos has several churches of historical and architectural interest:

• Agios Polykarpos: A Byzantine church with remnants of frescoes.
• Agios Onoufrios: A 15th-century church that was once decorated with frescoes by G. Provatopoulos, although they are now destroyed.
• Agios Konstantinos: The main church of the village, located in the village square. It houses a war memorial in its courtyard.
• Metamorphosis tou Sotiros: A church dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Savior, located on the top of the hill overlooking the village.

Other Points of Interest:

• Lakkos Sgourafou: The area encompassing the 20 villages between Kampanos and Sougia was historically known as Lakkos Sgourafou. Kampanos was once a prominent village in this region, with a school and a police station.
• Fonissa: A location near the village known as Fonissa (Murderess). It is said that a severe storm once struck the area, causing significant damage and a landslide. The name serves as a reminder of this disaster.

Notable Figure

Anagnostis Gryfakis, also known as Gryfanagnostis, a chieftain and member of the Cretan Parliament, was from Kampanos.

Village Key Points

• Historical References: Mentioned in Venetian records as early as 1577. Archaeological evidence suggests settlement in the Classical and Roman periods.
• Location: Chania regional unit, Crete, Greece. 52 km southwest of Chania town, in the White Mountains.
• Altitude: 400 meters above sea level.
• Historical Significance: Historically a central village in the Lakkos Sgourafou region. Known for its Byzantine churches and role in local history.
• Current Status: A quiet village with an agricultural economy, known for its olive oil production and pottery making.