Arkalochori: Unyielding Against Earthquakes
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Time stood still on 37th September 2021, when a powerful earthquake inflicted extensive damage upon Arkalochori, leaving a lasting impact on the community.
The resilient residents refused to surrender, and from the very wreckage, the town is undergoing a remarkable rebirth.
Arkalochori is characterised by a vibrant cultural and commercial scene, featuring lively carnivals and art festivals.
The Athletics Association organises the annual Crete Half Marathon, attracting participants of all ages from across the island of Crete. It is an event that brings together both the young and the old, fostering a spirit of community and athletic achievement.
The area offers a multitude of entertainment options, while also being of significant archaeological interest.
A visit to the cave of Prophet Elias is highly recommended.
Information/ Photos Municipality of Minoa Pediados
Photo Wikipedia
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add to travel planReviving the Abandoned: Vitsilia Springs Back to Life
Once bustling with life, the settlement was subsequently abandoned, but in recent years, a few individuals driven by nostalgia for the past have chosen to revive it by establishing a new life in Vitsilia.
Positioned to offer panoramic views, it likely served as an observatory or watchtower prior to the establishment of the settlement.
Vitsilia used to be a castle village, complete with defensive walls and two towers. You can explore the remnants of these structures walking around the settlement.
At present, the remnants of the medieval castle, erected during the early Venetian period, continue to endure on this site.
The single-aisled church of the Holy Cross from the Venetian era has also been restored. In its honour, an annual celebration is held in the village on 13th September, the eve of its feast day.
Information/ Photos Municipality of Minoa Pediados
add to travel planSmari: A Beautiful Village Worth Discovering
Smari, one of the most beautiful traditional settlements of Crete, was deservedly awarded the second runner-up tourist destination of excellence by the Ministry of Culture and Tourism in 2011.
It is situated atop a hill in a natural landscape of unparalleled beauty.
On the summit of Prophet Elias Hill, the archaeological site of Smari stands as one of the most significant archaeological sites in the Municipality of Minoa.
Today, this charming village has been designated as a listed area due to its well-preserved traditional architecture, town layout, and Christian monuments.
The charming village of Smari boasts narrow cobbled streets, quaint stone houses, delightful tavernas, and cosy cafés, making it a compelling destination for a visit.
Photo: Wikipedia.
add to travel planLyttos or Xidas: A Rival of Knossos in the Past
The fairly large settlement of Lyttos is situated on the eastern side of Pediada.
In recent years, excavations have been carried out in the area, leading to the discovery of one of the oldest cities in Crete on the northeast side of the village. The residents eagerly support the scientists and often host them for meals.
Nearby, you can find the Generalido Valley, a site of natural beauty that is worth exploring, particularly the ‘Genarali’ water source, where you can see the ruins of two ancient watermills. In the vicinity, you'll also find the small church of Agios Nikolaos, adorned with rich frescoes dating back to the 14th century.
A visit to the village's parish church, which is dedicated to Panagia and Agioi Anargyri, is well worth it.
The area is also dotted with chapels like Agios Georgios among the ruins of Lyttos, Estavromenos, and Agios Nikolaos.
Photo: Wikipedia
