Kokkina, Sitia: Embracing the Chlouverakis Grove and Cultural Festivals

Ziros is a village in the municipality of Sitia, located in eastern Crete and situated 31 kilometres away from Sitia.

It is situated at an altitude of 590 metres on the southern foothills of the Egremnos Hill, at the north-western edge of the Plateau of Armenochandrades or Ziros Plateau.

The fertile plateau is home to the cultivation of olives and vines. In the past, a small lake existed in the location of today's central square. While Ziros holds a rich archaeological reserve, no systematic excavation has been conducted.

Remnants of both Minoan and Roman settlements have been discovered in the area. The central square hosts cultural events, including music concerts, traditional dance festivities, festivals, speeches, and celebrations.

Located 7 kilometres away from Makris Gialos, the village of Pefki in Sitia presents a traditional, highland charm.

Sitting at an elevation of 400 metres, it rests above the Anegyrous Gorge and lies 3 kilometres to the east of Agios Stefanos.

In addition to its central hub, the Pefki District encompasses the hamlets of Analipsi, Aspros Potamos, and Pilalimata.

Nestled in an amphitheatrical arrangement on the mountainside at 420 metres above sea level, the village provides sweeping panoramic views of the lush surrounding landscape.

Today, the population of Azali, a settlement within the Lithines District in the Sitia Municipality, can be counted on one hand.

Nestled within a lowland gorge, the village is cradled by the peaks of Dafni (937 m) to the west and Etiani Kefala (715 m) to the east.

In December 1828, Cretan fighters blew up a Venetian fortress located in the vicinity of the settlement, resulting in the demise of the Turkish occupants within.

In the past, the inhabitants produced golden raisins of excellent quality.