Avdou at Heraklion

Would you believe me if I told you that Avdou is a place where history meets serenity and culture? I had the chance to explore this beautiful village in Crete, and it’s truly a unique experience. Located in the Heraklion prefecture, Avdou is a quaint village with a rich history and vibrant traditions.

Avdou Key Information

Presenting Avdou Village

Avdou is a village and the seat of the homonymous community, the municipal unit, and the municipality of Hersonissos, in the Heraklion regional unit, within the region of Crete, according to the “Kallikratis” program. Before the Kapodistrias plan and the Kallikratis program, it belonged to the province of Pediada in the former prefecture of Heraklion, within the geographical district of Crete.

Avdou is a village in the northwest part of the Heraklion prefecture. It is located in a semi-mountainous location at the foot of Mount Selena and near the border with the prefecture of Lasithi, in the valley and the dam of the Aposelemis River, at an average elevation of 235 meters. It is about 37 km southeast of Heraklion. The local community is characterized as an agricultural semi-mountainous settlement, with an area of 11.750 km².

Avdou is situated in the middle of the lush valley of Lagada and primarily produces olive oil. The village is lively, especially in the summer when its population increases. This happens as the locals traditionally return to their homeland, honoring the events organized by the cultural and educational association of the village.

• The vaulted church of Saint Constantine, built in 1445, features interesting but poorly preserved frescoes by the artisans Manuel and John Fokas, important for studying the evolution of fresco art in the 16th century.
• The churches of Saint Anthony, Saint George, with carved busts of Jesus, the Theotokos, and others.
• The cave of Saint Photini, southwest of the village at an altitude of 760 meters, on the northwest slopes of the hill Louloudaki.
• The Faneromeni cave, east of the previous one, at an altitude of 770 meters, both of archaeological interest.

The oldest reference to the name Avdou is in 1381, while it is mentioned as Avudu in 1387 and Afdhu in 1390. The village is mentioned by the historian Petros Kastrofylakas as Avdhù with 253 inhabitants in 1583.

The toponym probably derives from the prophet Obadiah, whose temple, according to tradition, existed at the site “Lines”. The word “avdi” in ancient Greek means voice (cry).

As a settlement, Avdou is officially mentioned in 1925 with the official gazette being set as the seat of the newly established community. According to the Kallikratis plan and its amendment Kleisthenes I, it forms the community that belongs to the municipal unit of Hersonissos in the municipality of Hersonissos. According to the 2011 census, it has a population of 357 inhabitants.

Geography and History

Avdou is located northwest of Heraklion and near the border with the Lasithi prefecture. The village is in a semi-mountainous area, making for some picturesque landscapes. It’s close to the Aposelemis River and dam, which adds to the scenic beauty of the area.

The history of Avdou dates back to at least the 14th century, with its name appearing in historical records as early as 1381. The village has a rich heritage, with several churches and caves of archaeological interest. One notable site is the church of Saint Constantine, built in 1445, featuring frescoes by artisans Manuel and John Fokas.

Attractions and Culture

Avdou is not just about its serene landscapes; it also has a lot to offer in terms of cultural attractions. The village is home to several churches, each with its unique architectural style and historical significance. The church of Saint Constantine is particularly noteworthy for its ancient frescoes.

There are also caves nearby, such as the cave of Saint Photini and the Faneromeni cave, both of which hold archaeological significance. These sites provide a glimpse into the area’s rich history and are a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

The village’s cultural association is very active, organizing various events throughout the year. These events are a great way to experience the local culture and traditions.

Avdou Map

Travel Tips and Recommendations

To get to Avdou, Crete, you have several options:

By Car Driving Directions: Avdou is accessible via road. From Heraklion, you can drive to Avdou. The journey is about 30 kilometers and should take approximately 35 minutes to an hour depending on traffic conditions.

For those planning to visit Avdou, it’s important to note that the village is approximately 37 km southeast of Heraklion. The drive from Heraklion takes about 40 minutes. If you’re traveling from other cities, here are some approximate distances and driving times:

• Chania: 167 km (104 miles) – about 2 hours and 30 minutes drive
• Rethymnon: 90 km (56 miles) – about 1 hour and 30 minutes drive
• Heraklion: 37 km (23 miles) – about 40 minutes drive
• Hersonissos: 20 km (12 miles) – about 25 minutes drive
• Malia: 25 km (15 miles) – about 30 minutes drive
• Agios Nikolaos: 58 km (36 miles) – about 1 hour drive
• Ierapetra: 78 km (48 miles) – about 1 hour and 30 minutes drive

By KTEL Buses: KTEL operates bus services from Heraklion to Avdou, but it there isn’t a direct bus to Avdou. The closest you can get by bus is to Stalida, which is near Avdou. Buses from Heraklion Central Station to Stalida run frequently (every 20 minutes) and cost €5. The journey takes about 50 minutes.

By Taxi: Taxi services are available from Heraklion town and airport. The journey takes approximately 30–40 minutes, depending on traffic. Although specific taxi prices to Avdou are not provided, you can estimate the cost based on the distances and prices listed for other destinations. It would be advisable to pre-book a taxi or check the rates in advance.

FAQs

1. What is Avdou known for? Avdou is known for its cultural heritage, olive oil production, and beautiful landscapes.
2. How can I get to Avdou? Avdou is accessible by road, with driving times varying depending on your starting point. It’s about 37 km from Heraklion.
3. Are there any historical sites in Avdou? Yes, Avdou has several historical sites, including the church of Saint Constantine and nearby archaeological caves.
4. What events can I attend in Avdou? The village hosts various cultural events organized by the local cultural association, especially during summer.
5. Is Avdou a good place for families? Absolutely! Avdou’s peaceful atmosphere and cultural attractions make it a great destination for families.
6. Where can I stay in Avdou? Accommodation options in Avdou include charming guesthouses and small hotels. It’s best to book in advance, especially during peak seasons.

For more information about Avdou and other Towns & Villages in Heraklion, visit the Heraklion Cities & Villages page on Cretorama.

Stay updated on current travel requirements and transportation options by visiting the Greek Tourism Website, the Heraklion Municipality Websitey el Region of Crete Website. Follow us on Instagram y Pinterest for more photos of Crete.