Melitakes

Melitakes: A Beacon of Agroecology in Crete

Melitakes, a name derived from the Cretan word for ant (“melitakas”), is a social enterprise based in Pyrgos, a village nestled in the Asterousia Mountains of southern Heraklion, Crete. Inspired by the collaborative spirit and tireless work ethic of ants, Melitakes is a group of individuals dedicated to producing pure, high-quality food products while promoting the cultural heritage of their region.

Products & Goals Melitakes offers a wide array of products, all produced using traditional seeds and grown in soil free from chemical contamination. Their range includes:

• Grains and Legumes: Traditional wheat varieties, barley, and lentils.
• Honey and Bee Products: Honey from pine, thyme, sage, flowers, and various combinations, as well as propolis.
• Olives and Olive Oil: Chondrolia olives in brine and extra virgin olive oil.
• Wine and Spirits: Red and white wines, as well as raki.
• Dried Fruits and Vegetables: Sun-dried tomatoes, sultanas.
• Jams and Preserves: Orange and clementine marmalades, orange spoon sweets, and carob molasses.
• Other Products: Capers, free-range eggs, herbs, onions, potatoes, and natural laundry soap.

Melitakes’ primary goal is to produce pure, high-quality food products. However, their mission extends beyond food production. They aim to promote the cultural heritage of their region through various activities, including:

• Reviving traditional professions: Melitakes is actively involved in preserving and reviving traditional agricultural practices and crafts.
• Documenting and promoting local points of interest: They work to highlight the historical, archaeological, natural, and therapeutic attractions of the Asterousia region.
• Promoting local cuisine: Melitakes showcases the unique flavors and health benefits of Cretan cuisine.
• Developing sustainable tourism: They strive to create opportunities for visitors to experience the vibrant culture and natural beauty of the region.
• Encouraging youth engagement: Melitakes is committed to empowering young people to stay in the region and contribute to its sustainable development.

Location Melitakes is located in the village of Pyrgos, in the Asterousia Mountains of southern Heraklion, Crete. This region, steeped in history and mythology, is believed to be the birthplace of Minoan civilization. The rugged landscape and fertile soil provide an ideal environment for Melitakes’ agroecological practices.

History and Current Status Melitakes was founded by a group of individuals who shared a passion for quality food and sustainable living. They were inspired by the principles of agroecology, a holistic approach to agriculture that combines ecological science with traditional knowledge. Over the years, Melitakes has grown into a thriving social enterprise, producing a wide range of products and engaging in various community-building activities.

Philosophy Melitakes’ philosophy is rooted in the principles of agroecology. They believe that producing pure products requires using traditional seeds, cultivating soil without chemical contamination, and respecting both the people who produce and consume the products and nature itself. This philosophy guides all of their activities, from seed selection to product packaging.

Melitakes: Preserving Cretan Heritage Through Agroecology

Melitakes, a social enterprise based in Pyrgos, Crete, is dedicated to producing pure, high-quality food products using traditional seeds and agroecological practices. They also promote the cultural heritage of their region through various activities, including reviving traditional professions, documenting local points of interest, promoting local cuisine, and developing sustainable tourism. Melitakes’ commitment to agroecology and community building makes them a beacon of sustainable living in Crete.