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Handras, also known as Chandras in Greek, is a charming village located in the Municipality of Lefki, on the Armeni-Handras plateau, and is situated 27 km away from Sitia. The village has a rich history dating back to the 16th century when it was first noted by Venetians as Candra/Chandra with a population of 399 inhabitants, which has remained relatively unchanged to this day.
The Plakalonia region, where Handras is nestled, is home to several ancient Minoan sites, including Gras and Katrani. The exploration of these sites led to the discovery of a peak sanctuary located on Xykefalo hill between Handras and Kasteliona, which stands at an impressive 705 meters above sea level. Despite being looted, many artifacts were recovered from the site. Additionally, the Handra region is home to the cave of Panagia Gouda.
The Handras region includes several communities, such as Voila, Agios Panteleimonas, and Pano Panteli. Pano Panteli is home to an old church, the Metamorfosis, which features an inscription that reads “Petro Abramo was here in 1486.”
Visitors to Handras can enjoy a leisurely walk around the village’s tranquil streets and admire the stunning gardens filled with apple, pear, and walnut trees. They can also take a break from sightseeing by visiting one of the local coffee shops, where the friendly locals are always happy to share their Cretan hospitality and offer a taste of raki.
Handras is a small village situated within the Municipality of Lefki, on the Armeni-Handras plateau and 27 km away from Sitia.
Handras was first noted in 1583 by Venetians as Candra/Chandra with 399 inhabitants – which has remained largely unchanged to this day.
Ancient Minoan sites have been unearthed at Gras and Katrani in the Plakalonia region.
A peak sanctuary located on Xykefalo hill between Handras and Kasteliona soaring 705 meters above sea level was discovered during exploration.
The cave in the Handra region is called Panagia Gouda.
The Handras region includes the communities of Voila, Agios Panteleimonas and Pano Panteli.
The old church in Pano Panteli, called Metamorfosis, has an inscription that says Petro Abramo was here in 1486.
Visitors can take a leisurely walk around the tranquil streets and marvel at the stunning gardens filled with apple, pear and walnut trees. They can also pop into one of the coffee shops and experience Cretan hospitality while sipping on raki.
