Zoforoi, Minoa – Pediada

Zofori is a village in the Municipality of Minoa Pediada, Heraklion regional unit, Crete, Greece. It is situated in a lowland area, formerly characterized by marshes, at an altitude of 340 meters. The village is located 27 kilometers southeast of Heraklion city.

The primary occupation of the residents is agriculture, with olive oil and raisin production being the main agricultural activities. The village has an active cultural scene and is known for maintaining traditions and organizing events, especially during the summer months. Zofori also has a primary school.

History

Zofori was a fiefdom of Andreas Kornaros, who gifted it to his niece, the daughter of Vitsentzos Kornaros, the poet believed to have written the romantic epic “Erotokritos.” The village is mentioned in the 1583 census of Castrophylacas (Kastrofylakas) with the name “Sofforus” and had 109 inhabitants. During the Ottoman period, the village was mainly inhabited by Turks, concentrated in the area now known as “Archontika” (meaning “mansions”).

The name Zofori is thought to originate from the Greek words “zoi” (life) and “fero” (to bring), signifying that the inhabitants brought life to the area when they settled there.

During World War II, the Germans attempted to bomb Zofori from the air, but according to local accounts, a cloud of smoke miraculously obstructed their view, and the village was spared.

Churches

• Church of Saint John the Baptist: Built in 1870, this church celebrates the feast of the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist on August 29th.
• Church of Saint George: An older church that, according to local tradition, miraculously survived destruction during the Ottoman period.
• Church of the Ascension: A modern church in the village.
• Church of the Dormition of the Theotokos: Located to the west of the village.

Traditions

A notable tradition in Zofori is the ritual sprinkling of the vineyards with holy water on the feast day of Saint Tryphon (February 1st), the protector of vineyards.

Village Key Points

• Historical References:
  • 1279: Mentioned as “Sophoro” in a notarial document.
  • 1583: Mentioned as “Sofforus” with 109 inhabitants in the census of Castrophylacas.
• Location: Municipality of Minoa Pediada, Heraklion regional unit, Crete, Greece. 27 km southeast of Heraklion city.
• Altitude: 340 meters
• Historical Significance: Venetian-era fiefdom of the Kornaros family.
• Population:

• Current Status: Active village with an agricultural economy, known for its traditions.