Patsideros, Minoa – Pediada

Patsideros is a village in the Municipality of Minoa Pediada, Heraklion regional unit, Crete, Greece. It is located at an altitude of 564 meters on the eastern slope of a hill, offering views of Mount Dikti. The village is 29 km from Heraklion city.

Patsideros is known for its amphitheatrical layout, with traditional houses and narrow streets. The central square is a focal point of village life, with cafes and a fountain. The village has a two-room school, built in 1977, which serves the local children.

The main agricultural products of Patsideros are olive oil and grapes. Residents also engage in livestock farming.

History

The origin of the village’s name is unknown. Patsideros is mentioned in a 16th-century document, indicating its existence during the late Venetian period. Oral traditions link the name to a lord named “Patsis” who settled in Crete during the Byzantine reconquest of the island from the Arabs in the 10th century, but this has not been verified.

Patsideros played a significant role in Crete’s struggles for independence from Ottoman rule. It was a prominent village with renowned captains and rebel fighters. Korakia peak, south of the village, served as a hideout for resistance fighters during the German occupation in World War II.

Churches

Patsideros has several churches of historical and architectural interest:

• Church of the Archangel Michael: The main church of the village, featuring frescoes. Celebrates its feast day on November 8th.
• Church of the Virgin Mary: A Byzantine church located on the eastern edge of the village. Built in 1695, it was once part of a monastery. Contains remnants of frescoes. Celebrates its feast day on September 8th.
• Church of Agia Paraskevi: Located near the village cemetery. Built on the ruins of an older Byzantine church.
• Church of the Ascension of the Savior: Located in Krousamos, just outside the village. Celebrates its feast day 40 days after Easter.
• Church of Saint Anthony: Dates back to the 14th-15th centuries. Suffered damage in the 2021 Arkalochori earthquake. Celebrates its feast day on January 17th.
• Church of Saint John: A Venetian chapel dedicated to Saint John the Theologian, located on a hill in the Pyrgos area. Celebrates its feast day on August 29th. Near the church are the ruins of a tower, possibly dating back to the Venetian period.

Access

Patsideros is accessible via the Kalloni-Gdochia provincial road. There is a turnoff to the village shortly after Alagni.

Village Key Points

• Historical References:
  • 16th-century document (late Venetian period)
  • 1583: Mentioned as “Pacid(h)aro” with 61 inhabitants
• Location: Municipality of Minoa Pediada, Heraklion regional unit, Crete, Greece. 29 km from Heraklion city.
• Altitude: 564 meters
• Historical Significance: Role in Cretan uprisings against Ottoman rule, traditional architecture.
• Population:

• Current Status: Active village with a declining population, primarily agricultural economy.