Sarchos, Malevizi

Sarchos is a village and the seat of the homonymous community in the Malevizi municipality of the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It previously belonged to the Malevizi province. The village is situated at an altitude of 240 meters and is approximately 22 kilometers from Heraklion, the capital of the prefecture to which it belongs, and 11 kilometers southwest of Agios Myronas.

Economy & Agriculture

The inhabitants of Sarchos are primarily engaged in viticulture and olive cultivation, as well as the cultivation of fruit trees. The village produces grapes, olive oil, and table grapes.

Natural Landmarks

To the west of the village lies the historical cave of Sarchos, nestled in a verdant valley. This cave has a total length of 2 kilometers and a depth of 225 meters.

Historical Significance

Sarchos is home to several churches, including the Church of the Holy Cross, the Church of the Virgin Mary, the Church of Saint Nicholas, the Church of Panagia Kera, and the ruins of the Church of Saint George. The village celebrates its feast day on September 14th each year.

Historical References

• Archos: The village’s name is believed to be derived from the god or hero Archos, who was worshipped by the Knossos and Tylissos people in ancient Crete. An inscription from around 450 BC mentions Archos and indicates that he had a temple dedicated to him in Acharnes.
• 13th Century: The village is mentioned in a wine sale document from the 13th century.
• 1583: Sarchos is listed in the Kastrofylakas (Venetian census) under the name Sargho with 82 inhabitants.
• 1866 Cretan Revolt: During the Cretan Revolt of 1866, the Sarchos cave provided refuge for the women and children of the village, who managed to survive.
• World War II: On August 13, 1944, the Germans executed 20 residents of Sarchos, including the community president, Georgios Z. Christodoulakis. A few days later, they executed another 15 people in the village of Seisarcha. Sarchos has been designated a “martyr village,” and a memorial service is held annually for those executed by the German forces.

Population Data

Current Status

Sarchos is a living village that maintains its traditions while adapting to modern life. It is a peaceful retreat for both residents and visitors, offering a glimpse into the rural lifestyle and rich history of Crete.

Village Key Points

• Location: Situated in the Malevizi municipality, near Heraklion, Crete, at an altitude of 240 meters.
• Population: Approximately 165 permanent residents (2011 census).
• Historical Significance: The village’s name, historical references, traditional architecture, and role in the Cretan Revolt of 1866 contribute to its historical significance.
• Current Status: Sarchos remains an active village with a focus on agriculture and tourism. It offers visitors a chance to experience Cretan traditions and explore natural landmarks like the Sarchos cave.