Achladia, 3 km from Achladia village, presents Minoan House A, a 270 sq m structure, dated LM I & III. Excavations since 1939 revealed artifacts like amphorae and larnakes, illuminating Minoan life and burial practices. The site's rectangular design, potentially based on the Minoan foot, and its internal layout around anteroom A, reflect sophisticated planning. Debates persist on its function as a villa, due to simpler construction compared to central Cretan sites. Re-examinations in 2003 analyzed topography, materials, and spatial use, aided by digital reconstructions. The location's visual range and wind-protected orientation are noted. Building materials, like local limestone and marls, and techniques, including megalithic walls, suggest practical construction. Achladia offers insights into East Cretan Minoan architecture and socio-political structures, with its status as a villa under scholarly scrutiny.

Achladia, a historic village in Lasithi, Crete, features significant Minoan archaeological sites, including a late Minoan tomb at "Platyskino" and a Middle Minoan rural mansion at "Riza." The village, noted in Venetian records from 1577, reflects a rich history with traditional lime kilns, a mixed Christian and Muslim population during Ottoman rule, and its role in the Theriso revolution. Neighborhoods like Plaka and Vaga, with its Ottoman fountain, showcase preserved architecture. The village includes churches such as Agios Charalambos and Agios Ioannis, alongside a modern wind farm at Platysvolo. Achladia's name, possibly derived from olive production or pear trees, is supported by archaeological finds and historical records, with a cultural association active in preserving local traditions.

Adravastoi, a small village in Sitia, Lasithi, eastern Crete, has a rich history dating back to ancient times, with traces of habitation found on the Entichis elevation. The village was likely destroyed by pirates in 1471 and repopulated later. Its economy is based on agriculture, livestock and small-scale tourism. The village features traditional architecture, including single and two-story stone buildings with earthen or modern roofs, and the two-aisled church of Agios Dimitrios and Zoodochos Pigi. Adravastoi is located near Palekastro and Zakros and is part of the Municipality of Sitia.

Agia Triada (Agia Trias), a village in Siteia, eastern Crete, has a history dating back to the Minoan era, with archaeological finds at PetroKopio, Stalos, and Alogara cave. Formerly known as Tso, its name changed in 1920. The village, not mentioned in Venetian censuses, likely repopulated in the 16th-17th centuries after pirate destruction. First recorded in the 1834 Egyptian census, it had 25 Christian families. By 1881, its population reached 158. The village's economy is based on agriculture and fishing.

Armenoi, a village in eastern Crete's Sitia municipality, is located on the Armenohandrades plateau. Historically inhabited since at least 961, it's known for its Byzantine churches, including Koimisis tis Theotokou with 1570 frescoes by M. Kornaros, and Agios Georgios. The Monastery of Agia Sofia, dating to Venetian times and renovated in the 19th century, also resides nearby. The village's history includes Venetian and Turkish rule, an 1856 earthquake, and population fluctuations.

Chamaitoulo, a small, mountainous village in the Lasithi region of Crete, sits at 590 meters altitude near Ziros. Its few residents primarily raise livestock. The village contains the Agios Georgios church with a wood-carved iconostasis and an ancient water fountain. Neolithic settlement ruins lie 2 kilometers away. The population has dwindled over the years, from 22 in 1650 to just a handful today. It is 7 kilometers from Ziros and 34 kilometers from Sitia.

The Chamezi archaeological site, near the village of Chamezi in eastern Crete, offers a glimpse into Minoan life during the Middle Minoan IA period (c. 2000-1900 BC). The site's most notable feature is an elliptical house, a unique architectural form within the Minoan world. Discovered in 1903, the elliptical house's unusual shape and function initially puzzled archaeologists, with early interpretations suggesting it might have been a peak sanctuary due to the discovery of figurines and other ritual objects. However, subsequent research revealed the structure was likely a domestic dwelling. The house features two entrances, one on the southeast side and another on the northwest, leading to an upper floor via a staircase. The central area is believed to have been an open courtyard with a well or cistern on the eastern side. One of the largest rooms, located on the northeast side, may have served as a domestic shrine due to the number of figurines found there. Beyond the elliptical house, the Chamezi site also includes the remains of earlier structures dating to the Early Minoan period (c. 2800-2300 BC). These structures are thought to have been rural farmhouses. Excavations have yielded numerous bronze artifacts, further enriching our understanding of daily life in Minoan Crete. The Chamezi archaeological site provides valuable insights into Minoan domestic architecture, rural settlement patterns, and daily life. The elliptical house, with its unique shape and layout, challenges conventional notions of Minoan architectural design. The presence of both domestic and ritual objects suggests a blending of secular and sacred spaces within the Minoan home. The site's location, overlooking the sea and the surrounding countryside, also highlights the importance of agriculture and maritime activities in Minoan society.

Chamezi, a village in Sitia, Crete, boasts historical significance. It's home to the unique elliptical Minoan house, dating to the Middle Minoan period, and the ruins of Liopetro Castle, possibly built on an ancient acropolis. The village, known historically as Camesi and Hamizi, features a folklore museum in a 19th-century house. Nearby archaeological sites include Early Minoan tombs. Chamezi's history is reflected in Venetian and Turkish records, as well as later Egyptian and Greek censuses. The village sits at 430 meters above sea level on the Sitia-Agios Nikolaos road.

Chandras, a village in the Siteia municipality of Lasithi, Crete, sits at 580 meters above sea level on the Armenohandrades plateau. Likely founded during Arab rule, its name may derive from the Arabic word for "green". The village was recorded in a 1577 census as Ghandra and in a 1583 census as Candra with 403 inhabitants. The old village center, "Mesochoria", houses the churches of Agios Dimitrios and the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. Remnants of an Ottoman hammam can be found there, along with a Renaissance fountain and Venetian-influenced buildings. A folklore museum is also present in the village. The church of Agios Haralambos, with its neoclassical bell tower, stands in the northern part of the settlement. Nearby, the abandoned medieval village of Voila preserves monuments from the Venetian and Ottoman periods.

Etia, located in the Armeni municipality in eastern Crete, is an uninhabited village with a rich history dating back to the Byzantine era. Known for its well-preserved Venetian mansion, the De Mezzo, Etia was once a major settlement. The village also features the churches of Agia Aikaterini and Agios Ioannis, both bearing traces of Byzantine wall paintings. The De Mezzo mansion, a significant example of Venetian architecture, has undergone extensive restoration. Etia, though deserted, remains a protected traditional settlement and a testament to Crete's diverse heritage.

Exo Apidi, near Siteia, Crete, has a rich history dating back to antiquity. Ancient cities like Lenika, Keratos, Erythrai, and Stilai thrived there, known for the production of porphyra, a valuable purple dye. The oldest settlement is Droggari. During the Turkish occupation, villagers resisted, and during WWII, they aided British and Cypriot refugees. The area's mountainous terrain led to resistance against Turkish rule. Piracy fears led residents to live in the mountains, using watch points like Vigla. Numerous caves, including Katochigi, served as hiding places. The village's population has fluctuated over the years.

Exo Mouliana, a historic village in Sitia, Crete, boasts Byzantine and Venetian heritage. Its name may derive from the Mouliani brothers or the verb "mullono." The village features the Byzantine church of Agios Georgios, Venetian buildings, and a Turkish fountain. Exo Mouliana is also a gateway to Richtis Gorge and its waterfalls. The village's economy centers on olive oil production. Population data spans from 1583 to 2021, reflecting its historical significance.

Kalo Chorio (meaning "Good Village") is a remote village in Lasithi, Crete, located in the mountains near Sitia. First mentioned in 1881, its history likely dates back further, potentially linked to the Venetian and Turkish periods. The village has seen a significant population decline, with only 9 residents in 2011. Kalo Chorio offers a glimpse into authentic Cretan life.

Kato Episkopi, a village in Siteia, Lasithi, Crete, sits at 40 meters altitude. Historically significant, it contains a converted 11th-century bathhouse, now the Church of the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul, likely a bishopric seat during the Second Byzantine period. Archaeological finds include vaulted tombs and a Roman building. The church's architecture features an octagonal dome and imitates ashlar masonry. The village has seen various populations, including Muslims and Christians, through Ottoman and later rule. Its history is documented through Ottoman surveys and censuses.

Kato Krya is a settlement located in the Lasithi regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Siteia and is 12.6 kilometers away from the town Siteia and 5.6 kilometers away from Lithines

Katsidoni (Κατσιδόνι), a mountain village in Sitia, Crete, boasts a rich history. Named after the Byzantine Katsidonis family, its history is documented in Venetian and Ottoman records. A peak sanctuary on Mount Prinias and local caves like Yeros Spilios highlight its historical significance. The village is part of the Sitia Geopark, offering hiking and cycling routes. Katsidoni's traditional architecture is now protected. The village has a cultural association and celebrates Afentis Christos in August. Its population has fluctuated over time, with current numbers around 68. A notable fountain provides year-round water.

Lithines, a historic Cretan village in Siteia, is known for its Byzantine and Venetian heritage. The village, possibly named after the Litino family, features the 10th-century Church of the Virgin Mary with 13th-14th-century frescoes and the miraculous icon "Our Lady of Lithines". The pre-15th century Agios Athanasios church houses the Vlachos family tomb. The Byzantine Holy Apostles church at Adromili has 14th-century frescoes. A Venetian tower, destroyed in 1828, once stood in the village center. Lithines' architecture reflects the 17th-19th centuries, earning it historical monument status. The village has an agricultural cooperative producing olive oil and a cultural center in the renovated old school building. The population in 2011 was 322.

Maronia, a historic village in eastern Crete's Sitia municipality, boasts a rich past. Near the village are remains of a Minoan settlement and carved tombs. The village, mentioned in Venetian records as "Marunea" in 1583, is believed to be named after a settler from Thrace. Notable sites include the churches of Agia Triada and the Dormition of the Theotokos, the caves of Spiliara and Agionero, an Ottoman fountain, and a historic olive mill. Maronia is also the birthplace of Cretan revolutionary Captain Sifis Dermitzakis.

Mesa Apidi, a village in Lasithi, Crete, near Sitia, has a history dating back to at least 1925. Not mentioned in the 1583 census, it likely developed after the 16th century. The name derives from the pear tree, though none grow there today. The village became its own community in 1928. Now part of the Apidia community within the Sitia municipality, it comprises Mesa Apidi, Goudouras, Exo Apidi, and Kalos Lakkos. The semi-mountainous terrain is used for crops and pastures. Population data shows a decline from 179 residents in 1881 to around 20 in 2021.

Mesa Mouliana, a village in Lasithi, Crete, has a rich history dating back to the Minoan era, evidenced by archaeological sites like Selades. The village, mentioned in records since 1370, was the largest in Sitia in the 16th century. Today, it's known for wine production from Liatiko grapes, olive oil, and landmarks like the Agia Triada church with frescoes, the Kryfos Spilios cave, and a Venetian fountain. The population has fluctuated over time, with 288 residents in 2021.

Moni Kapsa, an Eastern Orthodox monastery in southeastern Crete, Greece, is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Situated in the Lasithi region, near Pervolakia Gorge and overlooking the Libyan Sea, the monastery features a unique cave-like church with pebble mosaics. Its history spans from the Byzantine period, with evidence of hermits and monks residing there, through Venetian rule, pirate raids, and Ottoman influence. It was revived in the 19th century by Iosif Gerontogiannis, a local hermit later venerated as a saint. The complex includes monks' cells, a guesthouse, and a dining hall, built on four levels. The church's north wall contains paintings from 1552-1809, remnants of an older structure. The nearby Pervolakia Gorge offers hiking trails and unique flora. The monastery played a role in WWII, assisting Allied forces. It was restored in the early 2000s and remains an active monastery.

Papagiannades, a village in Sitia, Crete, boasts a history dating back to the Minoan era, evidenced by settlement remains. First mentioned in 1834, its name derives from its settlers. The Venetian-era church of Panagia Eleousa, with frescoes from 1363-64, stands as a landmark. Known for high-quality olive oil, the village features a historic oil mill. Papagiannades offers a glimpse into traditional Cretan life, with narrow streets and hospitable residents, surrounded by olive groves. The village population, 69 in 2021, reflects its quiet charm.

Perivolakia, a small village in Sitia, Lasithi, Crete, consists of two settlements, Epano and Kato Perivolakia. Near Kato Perivolakia lies Pezoulas. The village is known for the Perivolakia or Kapsa Gorge, a 4.5km gorge with steep walls, and the nearby pre-Minoan Vournoferto cave with hunting scenes. Historically, Perivolakia is first mentioned in the 1881 census. Other sights include the deserted monastery of Panagia, caves in Kalo Nero, the Monastery of Kapsa, the old church of Agioi Saranta, beaches like Ammoudi, and the deserted settlement of Pezoulas. The village had 21 residents in 2011.

Petras, a Minoan site near Siteia, Crete, shows occupation from the Neolithic to Byzantine periods. Excavations reveal a palace, urban settlement, and industrial zones. The site features a hieroglyphic archive, storage areas, and craft production evidence. Petras was a key Minoan administrative and economic center in eastern Crete, with a palace, houses, workshops and evidence of agricultural produce collection and redistribution. The palace was destroyed and rebuilt twice. It gives insights into Minoan administration, economy, and social structure, with evidence of trade and regional influence.

Piskokéfalo, a large village in Siteia, Crete, was a Venetian fiefdom of the Kornaros family, including poet Vitsentzos Kornaros. The village features a restored Kornaros residence and watermill, intended as a museum. Near Katrinia hill, a rural temple with Minoan artifacts was unearthed, and a Minoan mansion's ruins remain. Piskokéfalo was the Turkish administration seat until 1871. The nearby ruined settlement of Trapezonda, also linked to the Kornaros family, was destroyed multiple times, including by Barbarossa. The village's population has fluctuated over time, reaching 642 residents in 2011.

Praisos, in eastern Crete, near Nea Praisos, was a unique inland Greek city-state, linked to the Eteocretans. Archaeological findings include Eteocretan inscriptions from the Archaic to Hellenistic periods. Its strategic position in the Praisos corridor facilitated trade. Occupied from Neolithic to Byzantine times, it peaked in the Geometric and Archaic eras, evidenced by architectural remains and sanctuaries. Hellenistic expansion led to conflict, resulting in its conquest by Hierapytna in the 2nd century BC. Reoccupied later in the Byzantine era, the site includes Late Minoan tombs, Tholos A-E, showcasing Minoan funerary architecture. The urban center spanned three acropoleis, marking it as a key historical site.

Sitanos, a village in Lasithi, Crete, sits at 620 meters altitude and is linked to ancient Itanos. The Exo Latsidi cave, one of Crete's largest, is nearby. Sitanos appears in Ottoman (1671) and Egyptian (1834) censuses. The village has an Ottoman fountain and the abandoned Zakathos settlement. Its population has fluctuated, from 168 in 1881 to 27 in 2021.

Siteia, a coastal town in eastern Crete, boasts a rich history dating back to ancient Greece. Possibly the birthplace of Myson, one of the Seven Sages of Greece, Siteia's historical significance is evident in its landmarks like the Kazarma fortress, a Venetian-era structure, and remnants of an Early Christian church and Roman fish tanks. The Archaeological Museum houses artifacts spanning millennia, including a collection of vessels and Linear A tablets. Today, Siteia is a vibrant town with a mixed economy of agriculture, handicrafts, and tourism. Visitors can enjoy various beaches, including Siteia Beach and Vai Beach, and explore the local culture at the Folklore Museum and the Museum - Exhibition of local products. The town is easily accessible by road, air, and sea, with Siteia Airport offering connections to various destinations.

Skalia, a small village in Crete's Sitia region, is known for its 19th-century resistance against Turkish rulers. The villagers' bravery became legendary, but their resistance led to a tragic end. Betrayed by a priest, the villagers were massacred by Turks. Today, Skalia lies in ruins, with only the Church of Agios Georgios and one house remaining. The village wall and spring are still visible. The tragedy occurred in the late 17th or early 18th century, and is commemorated annually.

Skopi, a village in Sitia, Lasithi, Eastern Crete, is known for an ancient olive press dating back to the Greek or Roman period. First officially mentioned in 1925, Skopi has a rich history. The village is the seat of the Skopi community, which includes Xerocampos, Panagia Faneromeni, Papadiokampos, and Sarantapechos. The population of Skopi is 524 (2021 census). The olive press, found in the "Proskefala" area, suggests olive oil production in the region during antiquity. The large stone base features a circular groove and tank. The dating of the olive press is debated, with some suggesting the Greek period and others the Roman period. Skopi is 7 kilometers from Sitia.

Voila, an abandoned village near Chandras in Sitia, Crete, offers a glimpse into Crete's Venetian and Ottoman past. The village, deserted since the 19th century, likely owes its name to a Byzantine surname, a term for boyars, or a place for oxen. Voila was once a sizeable village, documented in Venetian censuses of the 16th century with over 300 inhabitants. A prominent landmark is the Venetian tower, featuring a 1742 Turkish inscription and carvings of axes, cypresses, and pentagrams. Local tradition links the tower to a Janissary named Tsin-Alis. The village also houses the ruins of the 15th-century church of Agios Georgios and Panagia, likely built by the Salamon family, potential ancestors of the poet Dionysios Solomos. Two fountains with Turkish inscriptions and remnants of a Venetian castle further illustrate Voila's rich history.

Vori, a small village in Sitia, Crete, on the Sitia-Lithines road, is an almost deserted settlement with historical roots. Its stone houses feature unique clay pithos chimneys, characteristic of Sitia villages. The village center boasts the picturesque Michael Archangel church, while Agia Paraskevi, a Byzantine cemetery church, lies just outside. Vori's history includes Venetian rule and varying population numbers over the centuries. Despite its small size and dwindling population, Vori retains its charm, showcasing traditional architecture with stone doors and carvings, offering a glimpse into Crete's past.

Zakathos, a now-abandoned village in Lasithi, Crete, has a history rooted in pre-Hellenic times. During the Ottoman era, it was a Turkish village, with inhabitants converting to Islam. Later, it functioned as a metochi (farm) associated with Katelionas, as documented in the 1583 census. The village, situated in the Sitanos region, had a Muslim population of 103 in 1881. The abandoned settlement, divided into Upper and Lower Zakathos, is now utilized by residents of Ziros and Zakros. A notable Ottoman-era fountain graces the nearby "Vrysi" spring in Sitanos.

Zakros, a village on Crete's east coast, was once an important Minoan settlement. The ruins of the Minoan palace are a popular tourist destination and an important archaeological site. The village is also known for the Gorge of the Dead, named for the numerous Minoan Age tombs found in the caves along its sides. The Water Museum houses artifacts and tools related to the history of water use in the area, and the Folklore Museum displays exhibits on the traditional way of life in the region. Kato Zakros has a beautiful beach, and the nearby beach of Xerokambos is also worth visiting. The area around Zakros offers opportunities for hiking and exploring the natural beauty of the region.

Ziros is a village in eastern Crete, built at 590 meters on the southern foothills of Mount “Engremnos”. The area is characterized by limestone rocks with karst formations such as sinkholes and caves. The area of Ziros is rich in archaeological remains. Near the village of Chamaitoulo, at the site of Vrysi, a large Minoan settlement with cyclopean walls has been found. The earliest written mention of the settlement is made by Francesco Barozzi in 1577, who refers to it as Siro. In the Venetian census of 1583 it is referred to as Ziro with 448 inhabitants. In the village are the churches of Agios Nikolaos, Agios Georgios, and Agia Paraskevi. The church of Agia Paraskevi has frescoes dating back to 1523.

Zou, an eastern Cretan Minoan site, features a Neopalatial farmhouse spanning MM IIIB to LM IA. Excavations, including Platon's 1955 work and a 2004 re-examination, uncovered dark-on-light pottery and Linear A script fragments. Architectural remains reflect Minoan rural building practices. The site's location and artifacts provide insights into the area's economic and social roles during the peak of Minoan civilization, including the period surrounding the Thera eruption. Studies of Zou, alongside sites like Achladia and Epano Zakros, contribute to understanding Minoan settlement patterns outside major palatial