The Traditional Charm of Lastros

Nestled within the Municipality of Sitia, the village of Lastros epitomises the essence of traditional Crete.

Amidst its quaint streets, the old Byzantine Church of Agios Georgios serves as a testament to the village's rich heritage.

According to the Municipality of Sitia, Minoan antiquities and archaic artefacts have been unearthed in the surrounding area. A Minoan settlement, necropolis, and Minoan tombs have been identified, while archaic findings were discovered at Kynigospilios.

To the west and south of the village, along the slopes of the towering mountains that encircle it, you'll encounter the distinctive geological feature of Lastros known as ‘Stefanies’, rising several metres high.

In Altsi, you'll find the largest gypsum deposits in Europe, with three quarries currently in operation.

The area boasts a remarkable total of 15 churches, many of which are of Byzantine origin.

Photo: Wikipedia