Sougia, Kandanos – Selino

A Tranquil Coastal Village with Ancient Roots

Sougia is a coastal village located in the southwestern part of Crete, within the municipality of Kantanos-Selino, Chania regional unit. It lies at the exit of the Agia Irini Gorge and is situated approximately 70 kilometers south of Chania town. Historically part of the Selino province, Sougia is known for its long beach, relaxed atmosphere, and connections to the ancient cities of Elyros and Lissos.

Geography

Sougia sits west of the mouth of the Agieriniotis stream, which flows through the Agia Irini Gorge. The gorge has been formed along a fault line that separates the phyllite-quartzite rocks to the west from the dolomitic limestone of Tripali to the east. The slopes of the gorge are covered with pine forest, which has been affected by fires in the past.

The beach of Sougia stretches for about 1.5 kilometers and is up to 70 meters wide. It is a pebble beach, with the western end, in front of the village, being organized with tourist facilities. The eastern end of the beach is a popular spot for naturists. Large rocks emerge from the sea at this end, forming a small cove. Near the village, there is a fishing harbor and a stand of tamarisk trees along the beach. Inland from the eastern side of the beach are the ruins of the ancient city of Syia. Further east lies the exit of the Tripiti Gorge.

Historical Overview

Ancient Era: In ancient times, the site of Sougia was home to the city of Syia, from which the modern village takes its name. Syia served as a harbor for the ancient city of Elyros and was named after the pigs (“sys” in ancient Greek) that were raised there, feeding on acorns. Near Sougia is the site of ancient Lissos, another harbor of Elyros. Due to its strategic location on the southern coast of Crete, Syia flourished during the Roman and early Byzantine periods. Remains of houses and part of an aqueduct from this period can be found in the eastern part of the valley. Syia was destroyed in the 9th century by Saracen raiders. In later centuries, it likely served as a fishing village for the inland settlements, such as Koustogerako.

Modern Era: The modern village of Sougia is relatively recent. It is first mentioned in the Cretan census of 1900, with a population of 16. Sougia began to develop after World War II but initially lacked a road connection to the interior, relying on sea transport to Piraeus. The construction of a road to the inland areas slowed its development. In the 1960s and especially the 1970s, Sougia became a popular destination for hippies. Today, it is a tourist destination with hotels, tavernas, and other facilities catering to visitors.

Access

Sougia is connected by ferry to Paleochora to the west and Agia Roumeli, Loutro, and Chora Sfakion to the east. The European walking path E4 also passes through Sougia.

Points of Interest

• Ancient Syia: The archaeological site of Syia includes remnants of houses and an aqueduct from the Roman and early Byzantine periods.
• Beach: The long pebble beach is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and watersports.
• Agia Irini Gorge: A scenic gorge with hiking trails, located just inland from Sougia.
• Tripiti Gorge: Another gorge located east of Sougia.
• Church of Agios Panteleimon: A church with a notable mosaic floor from an earlier church, located west of the village.
• Church of Agia Irini: A picturesque church situated on a green hill near Sougia.

Village Key Points

• Historical References: Ancient city of Syia mentioned in historical texts. Modern village first recorded in the 1900 census.
• Location: Chania regional unit, Crete, Greece. 70 km south of Chania town, on the south coast.
• Historical Significance: Site of the ancient city of Syia, a harbor for Elyros. Became a popular tourist destination in the 1960s and 1970s.
• Current Status: A tranquil coastal village with a relaxed atmosphere, known for its beach and natural beauty.