Temenia, Kandanos – Selino

Temenia is a village located in the White Mountains of Crete, within the municipality of Kantanos-Selino, Chania regional unit. It sits at an altitude of 700 meters and is situated approximately 62 kilometers southwest of Chania town. Historically part of the Selino province, Temenia is known for its mountainous setting, therapeutic springs, and the nearby ruins of the ancient city of Yrtakina.

Historical Overview

Ancient Era: Near Temenia lie the ruins of the ancient city of Yrtakina, which dates back to the Minoan period and was built at an altitude of 900 meters. Yrtakina was an important and autonomous city in ancient Crete, with strong walls (partially preserved) and its own coinage featuring images of the Cretan wild goat, bee, dolphin, and the inscription “ATY” and “YRTACINIUM.” The city is mentioned in the list of Cretan cities that allied with Eumenes of Pergamon. It is believed that Yrtakina was eventually destroyed by the Dorians. In 1834, the site was visited and studied by Robert Pashley, one of the first researchers to identify and document the location of Yrtakina.

Venetian Era: The village of Temenia is mentioned in Venetian records as “Temegnia” in the Selino province in 1577 by Francesco Barozzi. The Venetian census of 1583 by Castrofylaka records Temenia and Pappadiana with a combined population of 225.

Ottoman Era: An Egyptian census in 1834 documented 14 Christian and 8 Turkish families residing in Temenia. In 1881, the village had 124 Christian and 10 Muslim inhabitants.

20th Century: From 1930 to 1997, Temenia was the seat of its own community. With the Kapodistrias program, it became part of the Anatoliko Selino (East Selino) municipality.

Population Data

Points of Interest

Church of Sotiros Christos: Temenia is home to a Byzantine church dedicated to Sotiros Christos (Christ the Savior), dating back to the 14th century. This church is notable for its architecture and well-preserved frescoes.

Therapeutic Springs: The village is known for its therapeutic springs, particularly the Tzanoudiana and Libinare springs, which are suitable for drinking therapy and are believed to be beneficial for kidney stones and other ailments. A recently renovated hydrotherapy center utilizes the spring water for various treatments.

Other: The village produces a distinctive muscat wine.

Village Key Points

• Historical References: Mentioned in Venetian records as early as 1577. Close to the ancient city of Yrtakina.
• Location: Chania regional unit, Crete, Greece. 62 km southwest of Chania town, in the White Mountains.
• Altitude: 700 meters above sea level.
• Historical Significance: Nearby ancient city of Yrtakina. Features a 14th-century Byzantine church.
• Current Status: A small, quiet village with therapeutic springs and a developing tourism sector.