Mesi, Viannos

Mesi is a small village situated in the municipality of Kato Viannos, in the Heraklion regional unit, on the island of Crete, Greece. It is located at an altitude of 540 meters above sea level. The village is sparsely populated, with residents primarily engaged in agriculture. The name “Mesi” is believed to have originated from the fact that the village was founded at a midpoint between two groups of settlers, one originating from Tymbaki and the other from Sitia.

History

During the Ottoman period, there was a settlement called Pera Mesi, located near Mesi, where the chapel of Panagia (Virgin Mary) still stands. A tragic event occurred in Pera Mesi during a wedding celebration when Turkish forces, reportedly led by a young boy, attacked and killed everyone present, ultimately destroying the settlement. The ruins of Pera Mesi are a reminder of this historical event.

Landmarks

The village has a relatively recently built church dedicated to both Prophet Elias and the Three Hierarchs (a combined dedication seen in a few churches in Crete).

Settlement: Key Points

Historical References: Ottoman period settlement of Pera Mesi.
Location: Kato Viannos municipality, Heraklion regional unit, Crete, Greece.
Altitude: 540 meters.
Historical Significance: Associated with the destruction of Pera Mesi during Ottoman rule.
Population Data: