Limnes, Agios Nikolaos

Limnes (officially: αι Λίμναι) is a village in the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi regional unit, Crete, Greece. It is located at an altitude of 200 meters in a valley known as “Skafi tou Mirampellou,” 11 kilometers from Agios Nikolaos. The village has a population of 346 residents (2021 census).

Limnes has been recognized as a traditional settlement, characterized by its narrow streets, stone-built houses, and historical churches. The village also has a folklore museum.

History

• Early Mentions:
  • The earliest mention of Limnes appears in a 1248 document, where it is recorded that half of the village paid 33 “hyperpyra” in taxes.
  • 1577: Francesco Barozzi mentions Limnes in his inventory.
  • 1583: The census of Castrophylacas records 587 inhabitants in Limnes.
  • 1630: The census by Basilicata also mentions Limnes.
  • 1671: The Ottoman census refers to Limnes as “Limyes” with 78 “haratsia” (tax-paying households).
  • 1834: The Egyptian census mentions Limnes together with other villages in the area, such as Choumeriakos.
  • 1881: The census records 796 inhabitants in Limnes.

Landmarks

• Church of Agios Ioannis Theologos: A Byzantine church with frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries.
• Church of Archangel Michael: Built in 1605, according to its inscription.
• Church of Agia Marina: The main church of the village, originally a monastery church. An inscription mentions its renovation in 1831 and reconstruction in 1938.
• Church of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity): Located in the village center.
• Traditional Architecture: Limnes preserves its traditional character with narrow streets and low houses built with local stone.
• Windmills: The village once had several windmills, which are now a distinctive feature of the landscape.
• Folklore Museum: Showcases the local history and traditions of Limnes.

Village Key Points

• Historical References:
  • 1248 document
  • 1577 inventory by Barozzi
  • 1583 census of Castrophylacas with 587 inhabitants
• Location: Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi regional unit, Crete, Greece. 11 km from Agios Nikolaos.
• Altitude: 200 meters
• Historical Significance: Traditional settlement with a long history.
• Population: