Built at 365m altitude, very close to Knossos, just 16km east of Heraklion, Myrtia is a village known for centuries for its wine, and more recently for its cultural contributions.
In the past, the village was known as “Varvari” (Barbarians) and according to one version, it got this name due to the presence of many Arabs and Saracens who settled in the area after Nikephoros Phokas retook Crete. The village’s history is closely linked to that of the Byzantine empire, while during the Venetian rule of Crete, it is said that the people of Myrtia helped in the construction of the Venetian walls in Heraklion. In addition, during the Ottoman rule, the village was regularly attacked by the Turks. Finally, in World War II, Myrtia villagers actively participated in the Battle of Crete, against the Germans.
In addition, Myrtia has become known as “Kazantzakis’ village”, because the father of the great Nikos Kazantzakis was born here, and this has resulted in the creation of a strong cultural identity that is constantly strengthened and expressed through various cultural activities. Daily life in Myrtia includes art and culture events organised by the Centre for Cretan Literature.
Furthermore, many travellers come to Myrtia to visit one of its many churches, including that of Panagia, that legend has it was built in 40 days, that of Agios Antonios, and that of Genethlia tis Theotokou (Nativity of Mary) which is the town’s patron saint church. Other churches in the area include the old church of Metamorfosi tou Sotiros (Transfiguration of Christ), Agios Georgios and Evangelismos tis Theotokou (Annunciation of Our Lady).
West of the village, there is the Kounaviano gorge, and east the Karteros gorge, while there’s a dirt path network via which you can reach the Agarathos monastery, the oldest monastery still in operation in Crete. The population of Myrtia is circa 500 people, most of which are farmers, growing vines and tending olive trees. There’s a primary school and nursery in the village, as well as some public services, taverns and cafés.
The museum
In the centre of the village there’s a museum dedicated to the life and work of Nikos Kazantzakis, that was founded to preserve his memory and promote his work nationally and internationally. It’s aim is to pay tribute to the great author, thinker, and intellectual who inspired so many with his life and work.
The museum was established in 1983 by set and costume designer Yiorgos Anemoyannis, while Kazantzakis’ second wife, Eleni Kazantzakis, has also made an important contribution to the museum. It is housed in the former residence of the Anemoyannis family, a family who was related to Captain Mihalis, Nikos Kazantzakis’ father. It’s a two-storey house with traditional architectural elements where Captain Mihalis lived for a few years, while Nikos Kazantzakis also stayed there many times.
Read also:
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Lake Kournas: Cretan freshwater lake with white sandy shores
Heraklion: The Venetian heritage, the Minoan palaces, and a mini guide to have the best time
