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 village Map
Discover Handras village is located at Handras village, in the Lassithi region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
Frequently asked questions
Where is Handras located?
Handras is a small village situated within the Municipality of Lefki, on the Armeni-Handras plateau and 27 km away from Sitia.
When was Handras first noted?
Handras was first noted in 1583 by Venetians as Candra/Chandra with 399 inhabitants - which has remained largely unchanged to this day.
What ancient Minoan sites have been unearthed in the Plakalonia region?
Ancient Minoan sites have been unearthed at Gras and Katrani in the Plakalonia region.
What was discovered during exploration between Handras and Kasteliona?
A peak sanctuary located on Xykefalo hill between Handras and Kasteliona soaring 705 meters above sea level was discovered during exploration.
What is the name of the cave in the Handra region?
The cave in the Handra region is called Panagia Gouda.
What communities are included in the Handras region?
The Handras region includes the communities of Voila, Agios Panteleimonas and Pano Panteli.
What is the significance of the old church in Pano Panteli?
The old church in Pano Panteli, called Metamorfosis, has an inscription that says Petro Abramo was here in 1486.
What can visitors do in Handras?
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.
