Margarites, Pottery village in Mylopotamos, Greece.
Margarites is a village in central Crete where pottery workshops line the narrow streets within traditional stone buildings. The settlement functions almost entirely around ceramic production, with kilns, work tables, and finished pieces visible throughout.
Between 1829 and 1830, the village served as headquarters for the Cretan Council during the independence struggle. This role placed it at the center of political decisions during a crucial moment in Cretan history.
The pottery workshops here open directly onto the streets, letting visitors watch artisans shape clay and fire their kilns as part of daily village life.
The village is easy to explore on foot, with workshops accessible during daylight hours and pottery available for purchase. Local tavernas and guesthouses provide meals and accommodation for those wishing to spend time here.
Beneath the village lies an ancient vaulted tomb dating to 1350 BC, revealing that people have inhabited this region since prehistoric times. This underground burial chamber connects the site's earliest inhabitants to the potters working here today.
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