The Human-shaped Mountain: Mt Yiouchtas

Mt Yiouchtas stands as one of Crete's prideful treasures.

It is a mountain with a distinct human-like shape that impresses the beholder even from a distance.

The sacred mountain of the Minoans, adorned with numerous archaeological sites, has long served as a natural sanctuary for a diverse and abundant flora. Due to its ecological significance, the area has been listed in the European Union's CORINE BIOTOPS, recognising its importance as a conservation site within Europe. Furthermore, it has been designated as part of the NATURA 2000 Network, under the code GR 4310002 ‘Yiouchtas-Agia Irini Gorge’.

The Ecological-Archaeological Park of Yiouchtas encompasses not only Mt Yiouchtas but also the surrounding gorges of Knossano (Agia Irini), Astrakiano, and Kounaviano. Together, these natural areas form a unified park that combines ecological and archaeological features.

Information: Municipality Archanes Asterousia

Photo 1: incrediblecrete.gr

Photo 2: Wikipedia

Photos 3-4: “Handcrafted Crete”, Isabella Zambetaki, Region of Crete