One of the oldest villages in Crete, Kritsa is located in the Lasithi region, built amphitheatrically at an elevation of 330-365 meters at the foot of Mount Kastellos.
This picturesque and authentic Cretan village is just 9 km from Agios Nikolaos and is renowned for its strong traditional character, maintaining its distinctive architectural charm to this day. Throughout the Middle Ages, Kritsa was the largest village in Crete, with continuous habitation dating back to the late Minoan period. Its peak period is believed to have been during the Byzantine era.
Visitors to the village can wander through its beautiful stone-paved alleys, traditional buildings, fragrant courtyards, blooming bougainvilleas, characteristic arches, shops selling local crafts and folk art, and traditional cafés. Notable sights in the area include the Kritsa Gorge, the Church of Panagia Kera with its intricate frescoes, and the small nearby village of Tapes.
Kritsa: A Star in Successful Film Productions
With its beauty and unspoiled charm, it’s no surprise that Kritsa was chosen as a natural set for several films. The village inspired various directors, starring in the famous film Fourtounakis and Vrontakis with Aliki Vougiouklaki and Dimitris Papamichail, as well as the unforgettable Christ Recrucified with Melina Mercouri and Jules Dassin.