Oros: The Village and the Prominent Rock

Perched at an altitude of 490 metres and situated 20 kilometres from the base of Vrysinas, Oros is a village with a population of 81. The name translates to ‘mountain’ and finds its initial mention in the censuses of the 16^th and 17^th centuries.

The village is home to the ancient church of Agia Marina, exhibiting Renaissance architecture adorned with impressive works by Cretan painters.

Originally, the village bore the name ‘Agrio’ meaning ‘wild’ due to the presence of a substantial rock at its centre. The rock is now located in Vates, east of Oros.

Oros earned its current name during the era when Crete was divided into ‘100 Cities’, as it held the distinction of being the highest village on Mt Vrysina.

The region predominantly engages in the cultivation of olives, vineyards, and a modest amount of cereals.

Photo: By Ian Yates Via Unsplash