Kounavi: Winegrowing and Archaeology in Crete

Kounavi appeals to travellers who want to include the history of winegrowing and archaeological traces in their trip to Crete. Notable features of the village include masonry wine presses, a Venetian-Ottoman bridge and finds from several periods. If these cultural themes are to shape your holiday, they may also influence your choice of a holiday apartment in Kounavi.

Archaeological Traces from Various Periods

At the prehistoric-geometric cemetery in Kounávoi is a tholos tomb considered unique in north-central Crete. Part of a geometric cemetery dating from the 11th to 8th century BC was excavated at Vathyiades; Roman tombs dating from the 2nd century AD were also uncovered at the same site.

At Ellinika, inscriptions, a funerary stele depicting a young woman and architectural remains from the Archaic period (7th–6th century BC) are associated with the site of the ancient city of Eltynia. Hellenistic votive reliefs dating from the 4th to 1st century BC were found at Skenteri. The different dates show that the archaeological traces span several periods and are associated with various locations.

In the wider region, the territory of the ancient city of Eltynia, also known as Eltyna or Eltynaia, extended across the present-day villages of Kounávoi, Katalagari and Peza, as well as the settlements of Zagourianoi and Komes. This broader geographical setting adds a regional perspective to the specific find sites at Ellinika and Skenteri.

Winegrowing Between History and Landscape

Winegrowing in the Kounávoi area can be traced back to the 13th century. Preserved masonry wine presses dating from the 15th and 16th centuries give this long history a tangible presence. Presses are located near Agios Nikolaos, where the church of Agios Konstantinos also stands, as well as at Skepasta Patitiria, Korakia and Simianou Lakkos. Vaulted wine presses have been preserved at the latter three locations.

The landscape along the road towards Kounávoi is also shaped by agriculture, with vineyards beside olive trees. The winegrowing theme is therefore evident both in the historic structures and in the landscape described along the road.

The Titakis Wines winery in Kounávoi has a tasting room for five people. Visits are possible from April to November, Monday to Friday, from 12:00 to 16:00. Please arrange your visit directly with the winery in advance.

The Church and Bridge as Local Landmarks

The church of Agios Panteleimon is about 300 metres from the main village of Kounávoi, amid vineyards. The feast of Agios Panteleimon is celebrated with a large festival on 27 July. Another notable structure is the Venetian-Ottoman bridge in Kounávoi, known as “του Σουλάχη η Καμάρα”.

Discover more destinations: Agios Sillas, Kroussonas, Vori, Vasilies, Mátala, Anissaras, Petrokefalo, Elea.

For the main travel overview: Heraklion.