Mesa Lassithi: The Village of Wood Carving Delights

Mesa Lassithi is situated on the eastern edge of the Plateau's plain. It is nestled near the foothills of Mt Samia and enjoys proximity to the Krystallenia Monastery.

In earlier times, Mesa Lassithi was known for its significant apple production, featuring high-quality varieties. Regrettably, this production has declined considerably in recent years. On the village's nearby hills, remnants of settlements and diverse artefacts have been unearthed, hinting at habitation in parts of Lassithi since the Late Minoan period or even earlier times.

Under Venetian rule, the village had several surrounding dependencies, which now exist solely as place names.

Of significance is the establishment of an informal school for ecclesiastical woodcarving within this village. This school was active for nearly a century, spanning from 1850 to 1940. The artisans (known as ‘nitadori’) from this school crafted several masterpieces that currently adorn various churches across Crete.

Information Municipality of Oropedio Lasithioy

Archive photo: Incrediblecrete