Located 22.5 km away from Heraklion, Skotino Village is believed to have been named after the church of Aghios Nikolaos Skotino, which was built during the Venetian period. The church served as a Hedge School or Hidden School during the Turkish rule when education was banned. The locals referred to it as “Skotino” (meaning darkness) when they intended to go there for schooling purposes. The church’s name appears as “Skotino Perasma” on a 1671 map from the Turkish administration. Today, an extra wing has been added to the ancient structure, dedicated to Aghios Charalambos.
A popular tourist attraction, the cave of Aghia Paraskevi is located just 1.5 km away from Skotino Village. Visitors are drawn to the cave’s exploration, making it a must-see destination.
Skotino Village Map
Discover Skotino Village is located at Skotino Village, in the Heraklion region of Crete. The map below shows the exact spot; Google Maps and Waze give turn-by-turn directions.
Frequently asked questions
What is Skotino Village?
Skotino Village is a small traditional village located in the region of Crete, Greece.
What is the history of Skotino Village?
Skotino Village has a long history dating back to the Minoan period. It was also occupied by the Venetians and the Ottomans.
What are the main attractions in Skotino Village?
The main attractions in Skotino Village include the Skotino Cave, the Byzantine church of Agios Ioannis, and the traditional architecture of the village.
What is the Skotino Cave?
The Skotino Cave is a natural cave located near Skotino Village. It is known for its impressive stalactites and stalagmites.
What is the Byzantine church of Agios Ioannis?
The Byzantine church of Agios Ioannis is a small church located in Skotino Village. It dates back to the 14th century and is known for its beautiful frescoes.
What is the traditional architecture of Skotino Village?
Skotino Village is known for its traditional architecture, which includes stone houses with red-tiled roofs and narrow streets.
Is Skotino Village a popular tourist destination?
Skotino Village is not a popular tourist destination, but it is a great place to visit for those who want to experience traditional Greek village life.
How can I get to Skotino Village?
Skotino Village is located about 20 kilometers from the city of Heraklion. You can get there by car or by taking a bus from Heraklion.
