Ano Asites: Gorge, Crafts and Cretan History

Ano Asites appeals to travelers who want to include nature and traditional local culture in their travel plans. Its defining features include Agios Antonios Gorge, local crafts, local produce and historic buildings.

Agios Antonios Gorge and Nature

Agios Antonios Gorge begins in Ano Asites, is two kilometers long and is known for its dense vegetation and waterfalls. The gorge is said to have 80 plant species, 24 animal species and 16 bird species; each of these groups includes protected species. The landscape and biodiversity are therefore central considerations if you are thinking of visiting Ano Asites primarily for its nature.

The gorge has no developed path. At narrow points, hikers may need to step off the path to avoid the water. Path and water conditions can change; check conditions before hiking. When planning, this means considering not only the length but also the actual condition of the path.

Near the gorge is Nichteridospilo Cave, which is 100 meters deep and serves as a refuge for bats. It is not accessible. Kouvdi in Ano Asites is also home to a centuries-old oak tree, considered a natural attraction worth seeing.

Buildings and Local History

The chapel of Agios Antonios stands at the entrance to Agios Antonios Gorge. The Church of St. Ioannis is located in Ano Asites’ old village square; according to its inscription, it was built in 1862. The Folklore Museum of Ano Asites has been operating since 1995. It is housed in a traditional building constructed in 1880, which represents a traditional Cretan home. The chapel, church and museum connect different aspects of local life with specific buildings.

Another historical landmark lies two kilometers from Ano Asites: the Ancient Rizinia Cemetery. At the edge of the cemetery stand two well-preserved vaulted buildings dating from Roman times. They are called “Siderospilies” (“Iron Caves”). This name is associated with the buildings and adds a reference to the Roman period to the local history.

Crafts and Local Produce

In Ano Asites, visitors can watch makers of livestock bells and basket weavers at work, talk with the craftspeople and buy their products. This connects craft with personal encounters: you can not only look at finished pieces, but also experience the craftspeople’s work and talk with them.

Ano Asites has a long tradition of livestock farming. Meat, sausage, apaki, Anthotyro, Graviera, Kefalotyri, Mizithra and yogurt are produced in the area. These products range from meat products to various cheeses and yogurt. Together with livestock-bell making and basket weaving, they give local everyday life a focus on crafts and agriculture.

Travel Planning and Finding Hotels

To decide whether Ano Asites suits your trip, consider which aspect matters most to you: the gorge and its natural surroundings, meeting local craftspeople, or the history of the local buildings. If you plan to visit the Folklore Museum, check its current opening hours in advance. An event period runs from August 24 to 29, culminating in the feast of St. Ioannis Rigologos on August 29. If you want to plan your trip around it, check the event dates in advance.

Discover more destinations: Thrapsano, Kastelli, Pompia, Kokkinos Pirgos, Galia, Damasta, Agioi Deka, Anissaras

For the main travel overview: Heraklion.