Vorizia, Phaistos

Vorizia is a village located in the southern foothills of Psiloritis, in the municipality of Phaistos, Heraklion regional unit, on the island of Crete, Greece. It is the seat of the community of Vorizia, which also includes the settlements of Laloumas and Mesiskli. As of the 2021 census, the community has a total population of 504.

History

Venetian Era

Vorizia’s history dates back to the Venetian era, around 1500, when it was one of the thousand villages of Crete. The village’s strategic location in the mountains played a significant role during various uprisings and revolutions.

Role in Revolutions

Several notable rebel leaders hailed from Vorizia. One such figure was Nik. Malikoutis, who killed the Janissary of Messara, Agriolidis. However, he was later captured and executed in Heraklion. Another rebel leader, Konstantinos Lekkas, fought in the Cretan Revolution of 1866 and was also captured by the Turks. Konstantinos Leratos, along with Fragias, assassinated Dervis Agha, a notorious Turkish Agha in the region.

World War II and the Battle of Trahili

During the Nazi occupation, Vorizia actively participated in the resistance. The Battle of Trahili, fought nearby on August 15, 1943, saw a small group of Cretan partisans successfully repel a much larger German force. In retaliation, the Germans bombed and burned Vorizia to the ground on August 26, 1943. The village was rebuilt after the war.

Economy and Culture

The primary occupation of the residents is agriculture, particularly olive cultivation. Animal husbandry, beekeeping, wood carving, and weaving are also practiced. The village has a kindergarten and a primary school. The Holy Monastery of Varsamonero is also located within the Vorizia community.

Landmarks

• Holy Monastery of Varsamonero: This historic monastery is situated near Vorizia and is an important religious site in the region.
• Trahili Hill: The site of the Battle of Trahili, Trahili Hill is a reminder of the village’s resistance during World War II.
• Timios Stavros Church: Located near the ruins of Varsamonero Monastery, this Byzantine church features well-preserved frescoes and intricate stonework. It was once a chapel affiliated with the monastery and remains an active place of worship today.

Additional Information

• Construction Period: The village’s origins date back to the Venetian era, around 1500.
• Location: Southern foothills of Psiloritis, municipality of Phaistos, Heraklion regional unit, Crete, Greece.
• Historical Significance: Played a role in various uprisings and revolutions, actively participated in the resistance during World War II.
• Current Status: Rebuilt after its destruction in World War II, it remains an active village with a focus on agriculture and traditional crafts.