MUNICIPALITY OF MALEVIZI

The Municipality of Malevizi, located near Heraklion in Crete, is rich in cultural and historical heritage that spans millennia.

 

The traditional village of Tylissos, continuously inhabited for over 3,000 years, preserves remarkable Minoan ruins and a network of historic churches adorned with centuries-old frescoes. The heart of the village features a beautifully restored Venetian fountain, traditional cafés, and early 20th-century mansions protected by the Ministry of Culture.

 

Tylissos also hosts the Municipal Gallery "Botis Thalassinos", which houses over 200 works donated by the celebrated Greek painter.

​

Nearby, the fortress of Paleokastro, perched above the sea, was a crucial Venetian stronghold during the Ottoman siege of Heraklion in the 17th century. It was once equipped with state-of-the-art artillery and remains a powerful reminder of the island’s strategic maritime past. At its base, a rare Venetian lime kiln still stands, a unique example of pre-industrial architecture on Crete.

​

In the village of Rodia, the Palace of Modina, also known as the Kallergis Villa, offers a rare glimpse into Venetian noble life on the island. Built in the 15th century, it now hosts exhibitions and cultural events, and is considered one of Crete’s finest examples of private Venetian architecture.

​

This rich mosaic of archaeology, folklore, and Venetian legacy makes Malevizi an exceptional destination for those seeking authentic cultural experiences in Crete.