Theodora, Mylopotamos

Historical References

The earliest mention of the village is in the 1881 census, when it had 43 Christian inhabitants and belonged to the municipality of Damastas. In the 1900 census, it had 76 inhabitants and was still under the same municipality. By 1920, it had been designated the seat of its own rural municipality. In 1925, it was annexed to the community of Aloides, but in 1931, it became the seat of the community of Theodora, which remained until the Kapodistrian administrative division in 1997, when it was incorporated into the municipality of Kouloukonas.

Historical Significance

Theodora’s historical significance lies in its representation of the countless villages that dot the Cretan landscape, each contributing to the island’s rich cultural mosaic. The presence of the ruined village of Amygdalia nearby serves as a reminder of the complex historical interactions between different communities on the island. Amygdalia was inhabited only by Turks, who used the inhabitants of the village of Theodora as Rayades (a term for non-Muslim subjects of the Ottoman Empire). The inhabitants of the area drove away the Turks without weapons, destroying their crops and stealing their animals. As it is reported, the Turks did not live in the village of Theodora.The village’s role in the Cretan resistance during the Occupation further underscores its place in the broader narrative of the island’s struggle for freedom.

Population Data Over the Years

The demographic trajectory of Theodora reveals a dynamic interplay of factors influencing its population. The peak in 1940 likely reflects a period of relative stability and prosperity, while subsequent declines might be attributed to urbanization, emigration, and other socioeconomic shifts. The current population of 123 suggests a resilient community, though one grappling with the challenges of rural life in the 21st century.

Current Status

Today, Theodora stands as a testament to the enduring spirit of its inhabitants. While the village faces the challenges common to many rural communities, it also holds onto its traditions and cultural heritage. The presence of historic churches, such as Agios Georgios (Saint George), built in 1914, and the church of the Transfiguration of the Savior, built in 1964, serves as a reminder of the village’s deep-rooted faith. The stories and legends associated with the surrounding landscape, including the “Arapis Cave” and the “Sterna-Mouri” archaeological site, add layers of intrigue and mystery to Theodora’s identity.