Just 10 km southeast of Aghios Nikolaos in the foothills of the Dikti Mountains, the village of Kritsa is home to a large agricultural collective of families with olive groves in the area, who produce some of Crete’s finest olive oil under the “Kritsa” brand. The Kritsa producers have an almost religious devotion to their product, 70% of which is exported.
A pleasant place for a stop on a stroll through the village is the Kafenio Saridakis, a café under the old plane tree.
Just a stone’s throw from the village stands the Byzantine church of Panaghia Kera that is worth a visit (Open Monday, Wednesday-Sunday, 08:30-15:30). The first thing you’ll notice at this place of worship, erected in the 13th or 14th century, is its rather austere façade, formed of three triangles; however, it is the murals in its interior that are of greatest importance. They were created during different periods and depict the Feast of Herod, the Massacre of the Innocents, the Last Supper, the Weighing of Souls and other religious scenes.
Before leaving the area, you could also pay a visit to Katharo plateau, easily reached from the village, an area composed of pastureland with huge Kermes oak trees and a few small tavernas. Way off the tourist itinerary and cool in the summer, it’s an ideal place for hiking or cycling.
Source : Greece is
