Prinias - Crete
The traditional mountain village of Prinias is located in the central part of the Greek island of Crete, about 35 km south of the capital Heraklion (Iraklion). The village is located on the site of the ancient city of Rizinia.
The village of Prinias
Prinias is a typical Greek village situated in a hilly terrain, near the main road connecting the towns of Heraklion and Agioi Deka. The village, with its small houses, narrow streets and beautiful churches, lives its quiet life and is almost untouched by tourism. The locals are mainly engaged in agriculture or cattle breeding.
The surroundings of the village are mountainous and beautifully green, mainly covered with pine trees. Nearby, the remains of the ancient town of Rizinia have been discovered.
Archaeological area of Rizinia
The ancient city of Rizinia was situated on the top of the nearby Matala hill, about 1 km north of the present-day village of Prinias. Research suggests that the site has been inhabited since 1500 BC, during the post-Minoan and Hellenistic periods. The foundations of an ancient temple were discovered on the eastern side of the hill and the ruins of two more temples dating from the 7th century BC were subsequently uncovered in the central part of the site.
A footpath leads to the site. As the extent of the excavations has been very limited, you won't find many visitors here. But those who make it to the top of the hill will be rewarded with an extra view of the Messara Valley and the Lassithi Mountains. The ruins of Rizinia are located on the road from the famous archaeological site of Knossos to the ancient city of Gortine.
A large number of artefacts found in the area are now preserved by the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Small waterfalls
After heavy rains, a beautiful waterfall, about 10 metres high, forms in the hills below the ancient site of Rizinia. The best way to find the site is to follow the small path leading to the sheep farm (located east of the excavations).
More touristic destinations of Crete
Close resorts: Zaros
Most favourite resorts of Crete: Adelianos Kampos, Agia Marina, Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion (Iraklion), Hersonissos, Chania, Ierapetra, Kalamaki (Matala), Malia, Platanias (Chania), Rethymno, Stalis
Resorts, beaches, sights or trips - clearly listed on the map of Crete.
Did you visit this place and do you have some additional informations, interessting observation or photos?