On the road to Profitis Ilias-Kyparissi, at an altitude of 390 meters, you will find the village of Galeni which is rich in viticultural and olive products, such as grapes, raisins, wines, oil and olives. Take a walk in the small alleys of the village and then enjoy a treat in the quaint cafe. Do not forget to visit the stone built church of Panagia Galatiani or Galeniani, which is a reference point and the pride of the villagers, and listen to the local tradition regarding its construction, according to which the church was built with milk instead of water, brought by the shepherds of the area.

MONUMENTS

 

Cluster of Late Minoan chamber tombs at Trapeza site

In the center of the mountainous and isolated area of the settlements of Kalou, Galeni and Roukani, in the place “Trapeza” and at an altitude of about 420m, G. Rethemniotakis excavated in 1970 and 1976 a cluster of eight Late Minoan (1900-1100 BC) chamber tombs, inside which larnakes (terracotta funeral chests) were found. The corresponding Minoan settlement to which the cemetery belonged should be sought in the surrounding area. Scattered Late Minoan sherds, found in a small surface survey on the low slope east of the settlement of Kalou, may offer an indication regarding the location of this settlement.

MONASTERIES-TEMPLES

 

Temple of Virgin Mary Galatianis or Galenianis

Visit the two-aisled church of the Assumption of Virgin Mary and St. Charalambos, which is a reference point and the pride of the villagers. Legend has it that Virgin Mary Galatiani or Galeniani was built with milk instead of water, brought by the shepherds of the area. It is also said that women who did not have milk to feed their babies would go to church, take some soil and eat it, in order to lactate.

HOUSEHOLD TRADITIONAL OCCUPATION

Visit the handmade jewelry workshop that operates in the village, where you can admire, but also buy jewelry made from various materials.