Koxare: The Village with a Strategic Role in Cretan Resistance

The expansive Koxare plain, bursting with olive trees, gives way to a rugged and imposing landscape. The village sits at the foot of Mount Kouroupa, considered a geological continuation of the White Mountains.

Koxare is home to two fascinating caves: the Beligre Cave, situated at 470 meters, and the Chonos Cave, higher up at 1100 meters. Past the village, the majestic Kourtaliotiko Gorge begins. Recognized as part of the Natura 2000 network, this 2100-meter-long gorge is traversed by the Kourtaliotis River. With lush vegetation, including many palm trees, and towering rock faces on both sides, this gorge is a haven for nature lovers.

To the southeast, archaeologists have discovered a peak sanctuary from the Middle Minoan period, yielding anthropomorphic and zoomorphic figurines, as well as Late Minoan tombs. Don’t miss the small chapel of Agios Georgios, adorned with beautiful Byzantine frescoes—a testament to the area’s rich heritage.

(Photo: Wikipedia)