Anogia is a village located west of Heraklion of Crete at an altitude of 750 meters. The village is built on three levels on one of the hills of Psiloritis and the name of the village means exactly that – built on a high level. Anogia has a particularly close relationship with the mountain of Psiloritis and its mountainous landscapes. The inhabitants of the village are mostly livestock breeders and live a very traditional life, dressing in traditional Cretan clothing. They are characterized by their hospitality and good mood, and will not hesitate to offer you a glass of raki and a plate of their traditional food. They enjoy living in the moment and celebrating with lots of dancing and feasting.
Many young people who happen to visit Anogia village, are always get impressed by the agricultural cars that parade through the streets of the small village. Visiting the traditional kafeneia, one can enjoy the friendly company of the locals, who will greet you warmly and entertain you with their good-heartedness and melodic accent. The women of Anogia are renowned for weaving traditional Cretan textiles of unparalleled quality, which you can purchase from many shops in the area.
The village of Anogia is renowned for its contributions to the country’s culture. Many artists have been born in Anogia, particularly Cretan lyra players and singers, many of whom have gained widespread acclaim. One of the most prominent among them was Nikos Xylouris, who was born and bred in the village. Nikos Xylouris was a talented musician who significantly contributed to the preservation of Cretan traditional music. Despite growing up in poverty during the tumultuous period of World War II, he found solace in music and went on to become one of the most celebrated Greek musicians. Unfortunately, Xylouris passed away at a young age due to cancer, which shocked the nation. His sister has turned his house in the Perachori neighborhood into a small museum that showcases his life and career. The museum comprises relics and photographs of the humble singer and has become a popular destination for thousands of Greeks who consider Nikos Xylouris to be a symbol of freedom and morality.
Anogia boasts a rich and ancient history. As per Greek mythology, it is the birthplace of the god Zeus, located in Dikteon Cave. Later and during Minoan times, the sacred spring and settlement of Zominthos was the most important mountainous economic center of Minoan Crete. Anogia was first inhabited during the Byzantine period, in the 12th century. During the Greco-Turkish wars, the Turks used Anogia as a place to build their worship settlements, but during that time the village also became the birthplace of great guerrillas who fought in almost all the revolutions of Crete until its liberation. The mountainous terrain of Psiloritis kept the Turks away, providing refuge to rebels during the Turkish attacks of the 19th century. Even during World War II, the inhabitants of Anogia continued their guerrilla activities by founding a Committee of Liberation Action. However, the most tragic moment in the history of Anogia was the holocaust by the Germans and the complete destruction of the village’s houses.
Anogia is an undiscovered treasure that boasts a rich history and breathtaking natural beauty. The locals are hospitable and the presence of Psiloritis is majestic, making visiting Anogia a unique and unforgettable experience. Anyone who visits Anogia is to be undoubtedly charmed by its atmosphere and beauty!