Lasithi Crete excursion

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Lasithi Crete excursion

Lassithi plateau is famous for its windmills with white cloths, a trademark of the area. These were water- and flour mills, made most by the Peloponnese settlers that arrived here in late 19th century, to irrigate the plateau. Unfortunately, today young people have abandoned their homeland because the Greek state does not provide incentives, and the villages look deserted, with elderly population. Thus, the landscapes of Lassithi plateau 12000 whitewashed windmills, which once drew water from wells to irrigate cultivations, can be now seen on old card postals. But still, you can see several windmills, since many of them have been restored in the last years. Moreover, at the entrance of the plateau, at position Ambelos, we still see the largest stone windmill park in Greece.

Another attraction of the Lassithi plateau are linies, ie the linear drainage projects that were built by the Venetians to transport water across the plateau. Indeed, when the Venetians conquered Crete, they turned Lassithi to the largest “garden” of Crete, which still supplies Crete with excellent quality potatoes and vegetables. On a walk at any point of the plateau, you will find linies i.e. large ditches carrying water.

Within a short distance from the village of Agios Konstantinos and the nearby artificial reservoir with the goldfishes, you’ll meet the imposing and rugged canyon of Havgas, carrying the water of the highest Katharo Plateau in Lassithi. The plain is crossed by the Great River that leads water into a large sinkhole, Honos, on the opposite side of the plateau, from where it finds its underground way to Aposelemis River through the springs of Fleges (by village Kastamonitsa). Honos is full with water till spring and you can visit it next to Kato Metohi.