Oaxos, also known as Axos, was an ancient Cretan city in the Mylopotamos region, inhabited from the Neolithic to the Venetian period. It was known for its strategic location, association with the Idaean Cave, and connections with cities like Knossos and Eleutherna.
Archaeological findings reveal remnants from various periods, including cyclopean walls, terracotta idols, and bronze molds. Oaxos participated in interstate contracts and had its own coinage, featuring Apollo, Artemis, and Zeus, reflecting religious beliefs. The city was a member of the Cretan "Koinon."
Oaxos was eventually destroyed by the Venetians. Today, only a few ruins remain, with some artifacts housed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
Axos, located in the Mylopotamos Municipality in Crete, Greece, is a village steeped in history. It sits on the slopes of Mount Psiloritis, offering panoramic views. In ancient times, the city of Oaxos thrived in this location, leaving behind ruins of an acropolis, temples, and tombs. Axos flourished during the Byzantine era, as evidenced by the nine remaining churches dating back to that period. The village also boasts a medieval fountain and over ten natural springs. Today, Axos is a destination for agritourism and those interested in exploring the ancient city of Oaxos. The population of Axos has fluctuated over the centuries, with 385 residents recorded in the 2011 census.
Margarites, a historic village nestled in the mountains of Crete, is renowned for its rich pottery tradition that dates back to the Minoan era.
With a population of around 300, the village has seen its share of historical changes, from ancient Minoan and Roman times to the Venetian and Ottoman rule. Today, Margarites is a thriving hub for pottery production, with numerous workshops and studios showcasing the craftsmanship of its artisans. Visitors can witness pottery-making demonstrations, participate in workshops, and even create their own pieces. The village's pottery reflects influences from Minoan, ancient Greek, Byzantine, and Venetian periods. Margarites offers a unique blend of history, culture, and craftsmanship, making it a captivating destination for those seeking to explore the heart of Cretan traditions.
Mouses, an abandoned village near Mourtzana in Rethymno, Crete, reflects the island's rural past. The village's history likely mirrored other Cretan settlements, with population fluctuations due to historical events and economic shifts. Abandoned watermills highlight Mouses's role as a center for milling grain in the pre-industrial era, crucial for producing flour and other grain-based products. The village's current state reflects the rural depopulation seen in Crete during the 20th century. Mouses stands as a testament to the passage of time, with its abandoned watermills offering a glimpse into traditional practices. Although no longer inhabited, Mouses retains historical significance, providing a resource for understanding Crete's rural past.
Explore the ruins of the Koules of Mylopotamos, a 14th-century Venetian fortress in Crete, and discover the history of the Kallergis family's rebellion.