Opsigias is a beautiful village settled in greenery, with examples of traditional Cretan architecture. Visitors will encounter old stone-built houses and the traditional village fountain. A hiking trail leads to the church of the Ascension of the Savior on the top of Mount Samitos, with panoramic views. The village celebrates on January 17th, the feast day of Saint Anthony, and its patron saint is Saint Nicholas.
Historical References
The village’s history is intertwined with the broader narrative of Crete, marked by Venetian and Ottoman rule. Historical references to Opsigias date back to the Venetian era, with the first recorded mention in 1577 by Francesco Barozzi. Subsequent Venetian censuses further solidify its presence during this period. The village’s name, etymologically linked to the drying of grapes, hints at its agricultural past, likely an important activity under Venetian rule.
The transition to Ottoman rule is reflected in the 1834 Egyptian census, which documents both Christian and Muslim families residing in Opsigias. The village’s continued existence throughout the 19th and 20th centuries is evidenced by its inclusion in various censuses, showcasing fluctuations in population size tied to broader socio-economic and political developments in Crete.
Location
Opsigias is situated at the Amari Valley, a fertile region known for its olive groves and vineyards. The village’s position on the northern foothills of Mount Samitos provides scenic vistas and access to hiking trails. Its proximity to the larger village of Nevs Amari offers essential amenities and services.
Historical Significance
Opsigias holds historical significance as a testament to Cretan rural life and its evolution through centuries of foreign rule and socio-economic shifts. The village’s well-preserved churches, particularly the Church of Saint George with its 15th-century frescoes, offer glimpses into its rich cultural heritage. The etymology of its name, tied to agricultural practices, provides insights into its past economic activities.
Population Data Over the Years
Year |
Population |
|---|---|
1900 |
135 |
1920 |
121 |
1928 |
138 |
1940 |
125 |
1951 |
117 |
1961 |
93 |
1971 |
62 |
1981 |
45 |
1991 |
– |
2001 |
66 |
2011 |
31 |
Points of Interest
- Church of Agios Georgios (Saint George): Single-aisled vaulted church of the 15th century with fragments of frescoes. It is the cemetery church of the village.
- Church of Agios Nikolaos (Saint Nicholas): Parish church of the village.
- Church of Panagia Petraidas: Old dependency of the Asomaton monastery, near the village.
- Church of Agia Anna (Saint Anne): Two-aisled church between the villages of Opsigias and Amari. Fragments of 13th-century frescoes survive.
Current Status
Opsigias currently exists as a tranquil village with a small permanent population. Many of its traditional stone houses are inhabited primarily during the summer months and holidays when descendants of former residents return to their ancestral homes. The village’s natural beauty, historical churches, and hiking trails attract visitors seeking an authentic Cretan experience.
Despite its diminished population, Opsigias retains a strong sense of community and cultural identity. Local initiatives and events celebrate the village’s heritage and foster connections among residents and visitors. The preservation of its architectural and cultural treasures ensures that Opsigias remains a vital link to Crete’s past, even as it navigates the challenges of the present.
Village Key Points
- Historical References: Mentions from 1577.
- Location: Amari Community, Amari Municipality, Rethymno Regional Unit, Crete.
- Historical Significance: The village has historical significance due to its old churches and its mention in Venetian censuses.
- Population Data Over the Years: While the population reached 138 in 1928, subsequent decades saw a gradual decline.
- Current Status: A small village with 31 inhabitants, mainly inhabited during the summer and holidays.
