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Achladia Minoan Villa

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, Siteia

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.

Chamezi archaeological site

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, Siteia

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.

Etia, Sitia

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 Mouliana, Siteia

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.

Kato Episkopi, Siteia

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, Siteia

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, Siteia

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.

Liopetro Fortress: A Venetian Stronghold Overlooking the Cretan Sea

Lithines, Ierapetra

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, Siteia

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 Mouliana, Siteia

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.

Mochlos Minoan Settlement and Port

Mochlos, a small islet off Crete, was a significant Minoan port city with a long history. Settled from the Early Minoan period, it flourished in trade, particularly during EM III, evidenced by sophisticated crafts like pottery and metalwork. The site shows social stratification through its tombs. A decline occurred in the Middle Minoan period, but Mochlos revived in the Neopalatial period with a smaller town and ceremonial buildings. The town was destroyed in LM IB, though the site was reoccupied by Mycenaeans. Mochlos later became a major center for amphora production in the Roman era, exporting wine across the Mediterranean. Excavations continue to reveal insights into Minoan life and trade.

Mochlos, Siteia

Mochlos Island, a small rocky island in Crete's Gulf of Mirabello, is a significant Minoan archaeological site and a popular tourist destination. Inhabited during Minoan times, Mochlos was a major port and production center. The Minoan settlement was impacted by the Thera eruption. Later, Venetians built a fort, whose ruins remain. The island's history spans from the Bronze Age Minoan civilization through Venetian rule to its current status as a tourist attraction. The village of Mochlos faces the island.

Myrsini, Siteia

Myrsini, a village in eastern Crete, near Sitia, has a rich history. Minoan tombs and artifacts have been found in the area, and the Venetian-era Kornaros Tower stands as a reminder of past rule. First mentioned as Metochia in the 1834 Egyptian census, the village later became known as Myrsini in 1920 due to its myrtle trees. The local economy relies on agriculture, primarily olive oil and grape production. The Tower of Kornaros, also known as the Tower of Agios Antonios, with an inscription "Vicenzo Cornaros 1677", is a medieval structure with a complex history, including partial destruction during the 1897 revolution and subsequent restoration.

Papadiokampos Minoan House

Papagiannades, Siteia

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.

Petras Minoan settlement

Now closed
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.
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Piskokefalo, Siteia

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.

Presos (Praisos) ancient settlement

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.

Sfaka, Siteia

Sfaka, a village in Lasithi, Crete, is located between Siteia and Agios Nikolaos. Its name originates from the "sfakes" (bitter oleanders) near a spring. First mentioned in Venetian censuses, Sfaka has a rich history, including a Minoan tomb and a 17th-century church. The village is divided into upper and lower sections by the main road. Agios Andreas, a coastal settlement within Sfaka, offers tourist accommodations. Gennadios Syllignakis, a local resistance figure, was executed by the Germans during WWII. The village also has a primary school and a kindergarten.

Siteia, Siteia

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.

Skopi, Siteia

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.

Stavromenos, Siteia

The Archaeological Museum of Siteia

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Tourloti, Siteia

Trypitos Hellenistic settlement

Vori, Siteia

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.

Zou Minoan Farmhouse

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