Walking Excursion in the Picturesque Village of Kritsa

Kritsa is among the villages where the classic Greek film ‘The Fairy and the Lad’, featuring Aliki Vougiouklaki and Dimitris Papamichael, was filmed. Its breath-taking beauty serves as a testament to why this picturesque location was selected for shooting this iconic piece of Greek cinema.

Kritsa, situated southwest of Agios Nikolaos, is not only the largest village in the region but also the oldest administrative centre of the municipality. It holds a special place in terms of folklore and archaeological significance, offering a glimpse into a rich historical past.

The ancient city of Lato, adorned with Byzantine churches, charming alleys, and traditional houses, transports you back in time. Thriving even in the present day, it warmly welcomes visitors and provides them with the opportunity to stroll through its narrow streets, purchase local products and traditional handicrafts.

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Exploring Authentic Crete: A Fifteen-Kilometre Journe

Information: Municipality of Agios Nikolaos

Your hiking adventure begins in the captivating and historically rich village of Kritsa. Nestled in the Lassithi region, Kritsa is one of the largest villages on the island of Crete. Its amphitheatrical layout gracefully sprawls at the base of Mt Kastellos, providing a stunning backdrop to this charming settlement. With approximately 1,300 inhabitants as of 2011, Kritsa is located just 9 kilometres away from the coastal town of Agios Nikolaos.

Setting off from the village, you'll venture along a scenic path that guides you through the gorge of the same name, a remarkable crossing awaiting your exploration. As you navigate through the gorge, you'll immerse yourself in nature's embrace, marvel at the captivating geological diversity of the area, and traverse amidst awe-inspiring rocks and narrow passages. Upon completing the gorge crossing, your journey continues on a circular route leading back to the starting point. Along this path, you'll trace the steps of an ancient trail that once connected the ancient city of Lato with the port of Agios Nikolaos, adding a fascinating historical touch to your hiking experience.

Optionally:

• Visit the church of Panagia Kera!

• Have a drink or have lunch at the village square!

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Exploring Authentic Crete: A Fifteen-Kilometre Journe

Your hiking experience with Cretan Adventures starts with a leisurely walk along the charming narrow streets of Kritsa, where you will have the opportunity to explore the picturesque village and meet its welcoming residents. As you continue your journey, you will pass by the village's two main churches and follow dirt roads that lead you to the entrance of the gorge.

The gorge provides an excellent opportunity for an adventurous crossing, as you may encounter some boulders attempting to obstruct your path. However, with simple climbing manoeuvres, you will easily surpass them. Continuing along the riverbed, you will pass through the narrowest section of the gorge, measuring just 1.5 metres in width. As the gorge gradually widens and its steep sides transition into open terrain, you can proceed along dirt roads and a rocky trail that will ultimately lead you back to the village of Kritsa, completing a picturesque circular hiking route.

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Exploring Authentic Crete: A Fifteen-Kilometre Journe

The central square is situated in Kritsa, a small town in eastern Crete.

The settlement is located near ancient Lato, from which the residents transferred to Kritsa.

It was probably named after the first settler named Kritsas, who was settled there by Nikiforos Fokas after the reconquest of Crete.

Kritsa was among the largest towns and played a significant role in the liberation struggles against the Ottomans in 1823.

The square hosts festivals, local celebrations, musical events, dance theatre performances, art workshops, bazaars, speeches, and exhibitions of local products.

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Exploring Authentic Crete: A Fifteen-Kilometre Journe

Located in a scenic village that is well worth a visit, this church is among the most renowned in Crete.

About 500 meters south of the settlement of Kritsa, lies a significant monument in Crete - a three-aisled, vaulted, and domed church. The central aisle, dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary, is believed to have been constructed during the mid-Byzantine era.

During the mid-13^th century, frescoes were painted in the central aisle of the church. In the early 14^th century, extensive renovations took place, including the renewal of the frescoes in the central aisle and the construction of two side aisles - the northern one dedicated to St. Anthony and the southern one to St. Anne - both of which were painted with frescoes. Due to its rich iconography and the diverse styles of the frescoes, the church of Panagia Kera in Kritsa is considered the most significant monument in the area. Notably, the central aisle features a depiction of St. Francis of Assisi, while the aisle of St. Anne showcases scenes from the apocryphal gospels.

Architectural type: Three-aisled, vaulted, domed
Dated: 13^th – 14^th century
Location: Kritsa
Commemoration Day: 15^th August
Murals: yes
Access: easy / paved asphalt road

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Exploring Authentic Crete: A Fifteen-Kilometre Journe

Information: Municipality of Agios Nikolaos
Photo : Wikipedia