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Kefali Chondrou
Located near Chondros Viannou, this multi-period archaeological landscape illustrates socio-political evolution in the Bronze Age. The complex uniquely demonstrates a transition from a sophisticated Neopalatial (MM IIIB-LM IA) country villa on the western hill to a large, post-palatial (LM IIIA1-2) town on the central hill following an earthquake around 1600 BCE. Excavations by Nikolaos Platon uncovered the 50-room town and significant ritual artifacts, including a triton shell and a rare plastic rhyton of a pregnant woman.
Syme (Symi) Viannou: Sanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite
The Sanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite at Syme Viannou, also known as Kato Syme, is an exceptionally long-lived and significant cult site in Crete. It is located on a plateau […]
The Koules of Riza
An Ottoman-era fortification from the 19th century, located east of Ano Viannos. It controlled the strategic Viannos-Pefkos-Kalamio pass, crucial for accessing the Lasithi Plateau. Part of a network of towers designed to suppress local uprisings, it allowed Ottoman garrisons to communicate with Ierapetra. The structure consisted of a 14x7m rectangular building with two 3x4m southern bastions. The ruins are still visible at the site, which also marks where German forces carried out mass executions in September 1943.
Mesi, Viannos
Mesi, a small village in the Kato Viannos municipality of Crete, Greece, is located at an altitude of 540 meters. The village's history is linked to the Ottoman-era settlement of Pera Mesi, which was tragically destroyed during a wedding celebration. Today, Mesi is sparsely populated, with residents primarily engaged in agriculture. The village has a relatively recently built church dedicated to both Prophet Elias and the Three Hierarchs.
Kalami, Viannos
Kalami, a historic village in Crete, strategically located in the semi-mountainous area of the Viannos municipality. Built during the Venetian or Ottoman period, it offered protection against raids and pirate attacks. Once a thriving community, Kalami was an important commercial center with a customs office, warehouses, and various professions. The village's economy was based on agriculture, with residents cultivating olive trees, cereals, fruit trees, and carob trees. After 1960, the focus shifted to early vegetables and bananas. Kalami also served as the main winter residence, with people moving to lower-lying "metochia" in the summer for farming. Today, Kalami is largely deserted, with most residents relocating to coastal settlements.
Afrati, Viannos
Afrati is a traditional village in Viannos, Crete, situated 45 km southeast of Heraklion at an altitude of 480 meters. The village features traditional architecture, and residents are primarily involved in olive and grape cultivation. The origin of the village's name is uncertain, with possible links to the Greek word for "foam," the ancient city of Arcadia, or the Latin word for "monk."
The area around Afrati has been inhabited since ancient times. The nearby hill of Prophitis Ilias was home to the ancient city of Arcadia, which minted its own coins and later became a bishop's seat. Archaeological excavations have revealed ancient houses, a necropolis, and a 7th-century BC oinochoe (wine jug). Afrati first appears in historical records in the 1881 Turkish census as "Frati." The village features the Church of the Transfiguration of the Savior and offers access to the ruins of Arcadia.
Ano Viannos, Viannos
Located at an altitude of 560 meters on the slopes of Mount Dikti, this village is the seat of its municipality in the Heraklion region. It stands on the ruins of the ancient city-state of Biennos. Historically, it was a significant village during the Venetian occupation and was destroyed during uprisings in 1822 and 1866. In 1943, it was the site of mass executions during the Nazi occupation. Notable landmarks include churches with medieval frescoes, such as Agia Pelagia (1360) and Agios Georgios (1401).
Kato Viannos, Viannos
Kato Viannos, located in the foothills of Mount Dikti on the island of Crete, is a historic village with a history dating back to at least 1583. The village is home to several notable churches, including the Church of Agios Georgios and the Church of the Presentation of the Virgin Mary. During World War II, the village and its residents suffered greatly under Nazi occupation, with mass executions and the destruction of homes. Despite this tragic history, Kato Viannos remains a resilient community with a rich cultural heritage.
Martha, Viannos
Martha, a small village in Viannos Municipality, Heraklion, Crete, is nestled on the slopes of Mount Koupa. Divided into Pano (Upper) and Kato (Lower) Martha, the village centers around the church of Agios Nektarios. While its origins are uncertain, the name "Martha" is believed to be connected to a nearby monastery or a noblewoman's mansion. Today, Martha thrives on agriculture, with olive oil, cereals, and livestock as primary products. The village boasts an agricultural cooperative and a cultural association. Its population has fluctuated throughout history, with 132 residents recorded in 2021.
Pefkos, Viannos
A village in the Viannos municipality, Heraklion, situated at 740 meters on the southern foothills of Mount Psari Madara in the Dikti range. Its name derives from a large pine tree. First mentioned in the 1583 census by Castrofilaca as Pefco with 220 residents. During the Nazi Occupation, it suffered greatly; German forces executed men on September 12 and 14, 1943, and completely burned the village, later declaring it a 'dead zone.' Religious sites include the churches of Agia Anna, Agios Georgios, and Agios Dimitrios. The local economy is agricultural, based on olives, vegetables, livestock, and beekeeping.
Chondros, Viannos
Chondros, in the Heraklion region of Crete, is known for olive groves and early vegetable cultivation. With a history dating back to the Minoan era, archaeological evidence includes tombs and artifacts. The village was also significant during the Ottoman era.
Chondros boasts several picturesque Byzantine-era churches, including the 14th-century Church of Agios Theodoros. A long coastline with beaches like Dermato Beach, and a verdant landscape make it popular for hiking and swimming.
The name "Chondros" likely derives from the coarsely ground wheat used to make xinohondros, a traditional Cretan dish.
Kato Symi, Viannos
Kato Symi is a village nestled in a fertile valley within the Viannos municipality, Heraklion, Crete. The village is surrounded by a mountainous area with the largest forest cover in the region, including the Symi forest, and the Blavopotamos river flows through it. Known for its natural beauty, the valley boasts numerous fruit trees and caves like Zymbraga Spiliaria and Kissospilios. Kato Symi is also rich in history, with significant Minoan-era archaeological finds, particularly the neo-palatial sanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite at Krya Vrysi, dating back to 2,000 BC. The village has several notable churches, including the Church of the Panagia Galatoktismeni and Nistikoktismeni, built in 1385, and the Church of Agios Georgios with frescoes from the mid-15th century. Kato Symi has a long history, mentioned in the 1583 census as "Simi Catto." It was a site of resistance during the Ottoman period and World War II, where residents bravely fought against German forces. The village's population has declined over the years, but its historical significance and natural beauty remain.
Amiras, Viannos
Amiras, a small village nestled on the southern slopes of Mount Dikti in Crete, boasts a rich history dating back to the Arab occupation of Crete (824-961 AD). Its name, derived from the Arabic word for "ruler," suggests it may have been the site of an Arab amir's residence. The village is tragically known for the 1943 massacre of 117 male residents by Nazi forces, a somber event commemorated by an annual memorial service. Today, Amiras maintains an agricultural economy, cultivating early vegetables and producing olive oil. Its Cultural, Athletic, and Educational Association actively contributes to social events and cultural projects, enriching the community's vibrant spirit. Despite its tragic past, Amiras remains a testament to resilience and the enduring power of community.
Psari Forada, Viannos
A coastal village in the Viannos area of Heraklion, 89 km southeast of the city, located on the supposed site of ancient Sidonia. Its name, meaning "Grey Mare," is tied to a legend of the Byzantine general Theophilos. The settlement features the long Sidonia beach, characterized by dark grey sand and deep, clear waters, stretching from Cape Theofilos to Cape Sentona. The area's warm climate supports agriculture, including olives and bananas.
Emparos, Viannos
Emparos is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Viannos