Voukolies, Platanias

Voukolies is a village located in the Platanias municipality within the Chania regional unit of Crete. It lies in the valley of the Tavronitis River, 27 kilometers southwest of Chania town, on the road to Kandanos and Paleochora. Voukolies was historically part of the Kissamos province and served as the seat of the Voukolies municipality from 1999 to 2010. Today, it remains a significant village in the area, known for its history, traditions, and agricultural activity.

Historical Overview

Ottoman Era: Voukolies has a long history, with roots in the Ottoman period. It was once a predominantly Turkish village. In 1866, during a time of widespread unrest and rebellion against Ottoman rule in Crete, the Turks built a strong tower in Voukolies to solidify their control over the area. This tower, located southwest of the village, played a crucial role in protecting the Turkish population.

Battle of Voukolies Tower (1897): During the Cretan Revolt of 1897, the tower became the site of a significant battle. Approximately 400 Turks sought refuge within the tower, but they were besieged by Greek forces led by Timoleon Vassos. After a fierce battle, the Turks were forced to abandon the tower, leaving behind 240 dead. The tower itself was likely destroyed during this conflict.

Modern Era: Following the liberation of Crete from Ottoman rule and its union with Greece in 1913, Voukolies gradually transitioned into a predominantly Greek village. It continued to develop as an agricultural center, benefiting from the fertile lands of the Tavronitis River valley.

Population Data

Points of Interest

Voukolies Tower: While the original Ottoman tower was destroyed in 1897, some remnants of its foundations can still be found southwest of the village. A modern replica of the tower has been constructed, although it is not an accurate representation of the original structure in terms of size or design.

Good Friday Bazaar: Voukolies is known for its lively Good Friday bazaar, a tradition that dates back to the mid-19th century. Originally a marketplace for commercial transactions, it evolved into a social gathering for people from surrounding villages. Today, it is a major festival that attracts visitors from across Crete. In the past, the bazaar also served as a “bride market” where young women from neighboring villages would gather to meet potential suitors.

Agriculture: The inhabitants of Voukolies are primarily engaged in agriculture and livestock farming. The fertile valley of the Tavronitis River provides ideal conditions for cultivating a variety of crops and raising livestock.

Village Key Points

• Historical References: Significant Ottoman-era presence. Site of a battle in 1897 during the Cretan Revolt.
• Location: Chania regional unit, Crete, Greece. 27 km southwest of Chania town, in the Tavronitis River valley.
• Historical Significance: Historically a Turkish village with a strategically important Ottoman tower. Known for its Good Friday bazaar.
• Current Status: A thriving agricultural village with a strong sense of history and tradition.