Limnes (officially: αι Λίμναι) is a village in the Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi regional unit, Crete, Greece. It is located at an altitude of 200 meters in a valley known as “Skafi tou Mirampellou,” 11 kilometers from Agios Nikolaos. The village has a population of 346 residents (2021 census).
Limnes has been recognized as a traditional settlement, characterized by its narrow streets, stone-built houses, and historical churches. The village also has a folklore museum.
History
- Early Mentions:
- The earliest mention of Limnes appears in a 1248 document, where it is recorded that half of the village paid 33 “hyperpyra” in taxes.
- 1577: Francesco Barozzi mentions Limnes in his inventory.
- 1583: The census of Castrophylacas records 587 inhabitants in Limnes.
- 1630: The census by Basilicata also mentions Limnes.
- 1671: The Ottoman census refers to Limnes as “Limyes” with 78 “haratsia” (tax-paying households).
- 1834: The Egyptian census mentions Limnes together with other villages in the area, such as Choumeriakos.
- 1881: The census records 796 inhabitants in Limnes.
Landmarks
- Church of Agios Ioannis Theologos: A Byzantine church with frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries.
- Church of Archangel Michael: Built in 1605, according to its inscription.
- Church of Agia Marina: The main church of the village, originally a monastery church. An inscription mentions its renovation in 1831 and reconstruction in 1938.
- Church of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity): Located in the village center.
- Traditional Architecture: Limnes preserves its traditional character with narrow streets and low houses built with local stone.
- Windmills: The village once had several windmills, which are now a distinctive feature of the landscape.
- Folklore Museum: Showcases the local history and traditions of Limnes.
Village Key Points
- Historical References:
- 1248 document
- 1577 inventory by Barozzi
- 1583 census of Castrophylacas with 587 inhabitants
- Location: Municipality of Agios Nikolaos, Lasithi regional unit, Crete, Greece. 11 km from Agios Nikolaos.
- Altitude: 200 meters
- Historical Significance: Traditional settlement with a long history.
- Population:
Year |
Population |
|---|---|
1583 |
587 |
1881 |
796 |
1900 |
803 |
2011 |
324 |
2021 |
346 |
