Pites Grias in Prinias

The transformation of Crete's carbonate rocks persists, undergoing gradual yet constant erosion by water through the phenomenon of karst erosion. Among the most intriguing karst geosites in the Psiloritis Geopark is undoubtedly Pites Grias in the vicinity of Prinias village. In the depths of a ravine, one can find sizable circular and tiled rock formations marked by a distinctive groove along the perimeter. Locals aptly refer to them as 'Pites Grias,' which translates to 'Old Woman Pies,' as an attempt to explain the peculiar appearance of the rocks through a folk legend.

Indeed, these limestones, measuring 6-7 cm, prove insufficient for the relentless forces of nature. Over the years, laden with numerous fossils of sea urchins and bivalves, they have descended from the summit of the adjacent hill, Patela, where the remnants of the Minoan city of Rizinia lie. The substantial limestone pieces undergo dissolution by water, gradually taking on rounded forms. Simultaneously, due to their composition of two layers of limestone, water dissolves the rock along the dividing surface, creating a groove within each boulder. This dual process contributes to the distinctive shape of the rocks.

Photo: G Charkoutsis

Information: Psiloritis Geopark