Nipiditos, Minoa – Pediada

Nipiditos (Νιπιδιτός) is a village located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece.

Location

It lies on the western slopes of Koprokefala hill, which has an altitude of 985 meters. The village is situated 35 kilometers from Heraklion.

Etymology

The origin of the village’s name is uncertain. One theory suggests it derives from a pre-Hellenic settlement that has not been preserved. Another theory posits that the name means ‘dry place’, derived from the Greek words ‘νη’ (meaning ‘not’) and ‘πηδή’ (meaning ‘spring’). A third, unofficial theory links the name to World War II, suggesting that Allied soldiers jumped from a location near the village during the German occupation.

History

A large, square megalithic building dating back to the Late Minoan period has been discovered near Nipiditos. This site is believed to be the location of the pre-Hellenic settlement that may have given the village its name. Trial excavations in the village have unearthed significant findings that support the theory of pre-Hellenic habitation.

In the 16th-century census conducted by Kastrofylakas, the village is referred to as ‘Ippidhito’ and recorded as having 63 inhabitants.

During World War II, the caves of Megali Spiliara, Bathys Spilios, and Hostos Spilios, located above the village, provided refuge for British and Greek saboteurs following the sabotage of the Kastelli airfield in 1943.

Culture and Traditions

The village’s main churches are those of Agios Panteleimon, Agios Theodoros, and Agios Nikolaos. The feast day of Agios Panteleimon (July 27th) is a major celebration in Nipiditos. The western door lintel of the Agios Panteleimon church features a relief depicting eagles and angels.

Family and Social Life

Nipiditos is a small village with a strong sense of community. Families have likely lived in the area for generations, upholding traditions and celebrating religious events together.

Population

Settlement: Key Points

• Located in the Heraklion regional unit, Crete, Greece.
• Situated on the western slopes of Koprokefala hill, 35 kilometers from Heraklion.
• Pre-Hellenic settlement evidenced by archaeological findings.
• Caves near the village used as hideouts during World War II.
• Main churches include Agios Panteleimon, Agios Theodoros, and Agios Nikolaos.
• Population: 216 (2021)

Economy

The main occupations of the village’s residents are agriculture (olive oil, cereals, and sultana raisins) and livestock farming.

References

• Wikipedia