Kalamitsi Alexandrou: The Village Time Forgot
An ancient village of legends, resistance, and preserved tradition
Kalamitsi Alexandrou is an old, well-preserved village in the Apokoronas region of Chania, Crete. Its history is deeply intertwined with local legends and the broader resistance movements of the island.
Origins & Legends
According to local legend, the village was founded by a soldier of Alexander the Great named Alexandros. He and his fellow soldier, Amygdalos, are said to have established the two neighboring “Kalamitsi” villages — Kalamitsi Alexandrou and Kalamitsi Amygdalou.
Revolutionary History
The village square houses a monument dedicated to John Emm. Alifierakis, a fighter in the Greek revolution. He and several comrades were reportedly hanged by Ottoman forces from the trees in this very square. Records also mention Mr. K. Alifieris as a notable local teacher who ran the village school during its operational years in the early 20th century.
History on Your Doorstep
You don’t need a car to find adventure
An impressively constructed water cistern dating back to the Ottoman occupation (1646–1898). A tangible link to the past that sits right in the village, showcasing grand stone arches and hydraulic engineering.
Located in the center of the main square, this well serves as a focal point of the village’s traditional layout. A gathering spot that has anchored daily life for generations.
Built around 1934, this building is now a protected historic monument. Though no longer in use, it stands as a testament to the village's educational heritage in the early 20th century.
While the main village church is a large, modern structure, there is also a preserved church from the Venetian era dedicated to the Holy Trinity, maintaining the spiritual continuity of the area.
Located just outside the village, this cavernous chapel features a unique, large stone-carved dragon head on a rock bench. Believed to have been carved by a hermit who once lived there.
Explore Kalamitsi Alexandrou & Surroundings
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Apokoronas Hiking Network
We are located directly on the regional trail network
The Apokoronas region features a network of maintained hiking trails passing through gorges, ancient forests, and traditional villages. Trail APO-07, known as “The Enchanted Forest,” passes directly through our area.