Riza: Embraced by Majestic Mountain Scenery
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Nestled at the foothills of the Dikti mountains, Riza is a historic village with a poignant past.
The village has faced many hardships throughout its history, and now the few remaining residents focus primarily on livestock farming and honey production.
Visitors can bask in the breath-taking mountain landscape, with observatories thoughtfully placed by the village's Cultural Association.
The area also boasts remarkable historic churches awaiting admiration.
To the east, at Sfakora, stands the historic Church of Timios Stavros. It was at this very site that the local populace faced executions by the Germans during World War II. A monument to the fallen serves as a sombre testament to the village's tragic past.
Info: Municipality of Ierapetra
Photo: Wikipedia
nearby destinations
add to travel planMelisses in the Valley of Avgos
Regrettably, there are enchanting places in Crete that have witnessed a decline in their inhabitants.
In the community of Kavousi, one such place is Melisses, nestled in the valley of Avgos, amidst the Thrypti and Ornon mountains, along the road from Kavousi to Thrypti and towards Chrysopigi.
In close proximity lie other quaint settlements in the valley, namely Panagia, Sopata, and Trapeza, situated just 6 kilometres away (3 km via a path) from Kavousi.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the serenity of the landscape and explore the Byzantine Church of Agia Irini.
Additionally, the village is home to the stone-built Church of Agios Ioannis Prodromos.
Info: Wikipedia
add to travel planOrino: A Village Amidst the Red Butterflies
Pine and stone make up the unique scenery found in the historic Mountain, village that its roots are lost in the mists of time.
Modern reformation of housing and the pedestrianisation coexist alongside the earthen streets and abandoned shanty, souvenirs of a bygone era anymore. As it becomes obvious and by its name, the Mountain, is built on a high altitude of slopes of Mount Thryptis. This is the most ... mountainous, inhabited settlement of Municipal Unity Ierapetra, overlooking the Libyan Sea than the 620 m altitude.
The geographical position and the impressive natural scenery of the mountain have turned into a magnet for all sorts of nature lovers.
Info/ Photo: Municipality of Ierapetra
add to travel planThe Enchantment of Chrissi Island, also Known as Gaidouronisi
Chrissi requires protection, which is why various regulations are enforced by the relevant authorities.
The waters are exceptionally clear, showcasing a lovely greenish-blue shade, where waves gracefully mingle with seagulls and dolphins. It is imperative for humanity to preserve this serenity of nature and maintain its delicate balance.
This is one of Crete's 81 uninhabited islands, more commonly referred to as Gaidouronisi. It is situated in the Libyan Sea, 8 nautical miles south of Ierapetra.
One remarkable aspect of the island is its cedar forest, which boasts trees that have reached the impressive age of 200 years.
In Chrissi, fossils have been discovered on volcanic rocks dating back to a period between 350,000 and 70,000 years ago, when the island was still submerged beneath the water.
Photos 2-19 Municipality of Ierapetra
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Preserving a Fairytale Destination: Chrysi Thrives Without Visitors!
