Platanos, Kissamos

A Thriving Village in Western Crete

Platanos is a village located in the Kissamos municipality of the Chania regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It lies at an altitude of 240 meters, approximately 11 kilometers west of Kastelli Kissamos and 53 kilometers west of Chania town. Known for its agricultural production and lively community, Platanos has experienced significant growth and development in recent decades.

Historical Overview

Platanos is a relatively new village, with the earliest documented reference to it in the 1900 census. At that time, it had a population of 154 inhabitants (including the Koufoyaniana settlement) and belonged to the municipality of Mesogia. In 1920, it became the seat of its own rural municipality. In 1925, Platanos was designated as the seat of a community, a status it held until the Kapodistrian administrative reform in 1997, when it was incorporated into the municipality of Kissamos.

Throughout the 20th century, Platanos experienced significant growth, particularly in the mid-20th century, reaching a population of 1,065 in 1961. This growth can be attributed to its fertile land and its proximity to the coast, which facilitated agricultural development and trade.

Population Data

Origin of the Name

The village was previously known as “Pano and Kato Mesogia” (Upper and Lower Mesogia). Its current name, Platanos, comes from the large plane tree located in the village center. This plane tree, along with a nearby spring and surrounding cafes, creates a picturesque and welcoming atmosphere in the heart of the village.

Points of Interest

• Agioi Pantes Church: A small, single-nave church dating back to the Venetian period. It features remnants of frescoes and a small window.
• Metamorphosis tou Sotiros Church: The main church of the village, dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Savior.
• Panagia Myrtidiotissa Church: Located next to the primary school.
• Ancient Falassarna: Traces of the ancient city of Falassarna, the harbor of Polyrrinia, have been found in the Kastri area. Archaeological remains include ancient tombs, cisterns, pottery, and carved stones.
• Other Churches: The wider Platanos area has many other churches, including Agios Fotios (built around 1010 in a cave), Agios Nikolaos, Agios Georgios, and the three-aisled church of Metamorphosis tou Sotiros – Agios Charalambos – Agios Panteleimon.

Village Key Points

• Historical References: First mentioned in the 1900 census. Historically known as Pano and Kato Mesogia.
• Location: Chania regional unit, Crete, Greece. 11 km west of Kastelli Kissamos.
• Altitude: 240 meters above sea level.
• Historical Significance: Has experienced significant growth and development in recent decades. The area has a long history, with connections to ancient Falassarna.
• Current Status: A thriving village with a strong agricultural base and a lively community.

References

• ellinismos.gr
• Wikipedia