Skalia, Siteia

Overlooking the modern church of Agios Georgios from the hill of Skalia

Skalia (Σκαλιά) was a small village in the Sitia (Σητεία) region of Crete, built on a slope in the Sitia Mountains. The village was known for its residents’ resistance against the Turkish rulers in the 19th century. However, their resistance led to their extermination by the Turks. Today, Skalia is in ruins, with only the Church of Agios Georgios (Αγίου Γεωργίου) and one house remaining. Visitors can still see the village’s wall and the spring where residents used to get water.

Resistance Against the Turks

The residents of Skalia were known for their strong resistance against the Turks. They participated in many battles against the Turkish army, and their bravery became legendary. However, their resistance led to the Turks deciding to eliminate them. According to local tradition, the Turks sent 2,000 soldiers to attack Skalia. However, the villagers were warned of the attack and managed to defeat the Turkish soldiers. Despite this victory, the Turks did not give up and eventually found a way to kill the residents of Skalia through betrayal.

The Tragedy of Skalia

The local tradition says that a priest from Ziros (Ζήρος), named Papa Drakos (Παπά Δράκος), betrayed the people of Skalia. He invited them to a religious ceremony in the church of Agia Paraskevi (Αγία Παρασκευή) in Ziros, but the Turks ambushed and killed them all. Only one resident, Skaliotogiannis (Σκαλιωτογιάννης), managed to escape. The Turks then killed the priest for his betrayal. The events are believed to have taken place in the late 17th or early 18th century.

Despite the tragedy, the memory of the residents of Skalia and their bravery remains alive in the local community. Every year, on the day of Agia Paraskevi, a memorial service is held in Ziros to commemorate the victims. The event serves as a reminder of the village’s resistance against the Turks and the sacrifices made by its residents.

Settlement: Key Points

Historical References: Known for resistance against Turkish rule in the 19th century; site of a tragic massacre by Turks.
Location: Sitia region, Crete, Greece.
Historical Significance: Symbol of resistance against Turkish rule.
Current Status: Ruins, with only a church and a house remaining.