Thronos, Mountain village in Amari Municipality, Greece
Thronos is a mountain village in Amari Municipality located at an elevation of 540 meters, overlooking the Amari Valley toward Mount Psiloritis to the west. The settlement features traditional houses built into the hillside, creating a compact and terraced layout typical of Cretan upland communities.
The site was inhabited since the Late Minoan II period, with the ancient city of Sybritos occupying the Throniani Kefali hill north of the present village. During medieval times, a Byzantine church was built in the area, marking a shift in settlement focus and religious significance.
The Byzantine church dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary displays original mosaic fragments from an early Christian basilica, offering visitors a glimpse into centuries of spiritual devotion. These remnants show how religious practices shaped the community's identity over generations.
The village sits approximately 32 kilometers from Rethymno and serves as a connection point between the northern and southern coasts of Crete via mountain roads. Visitors should expect narrow paths and plan adequate travel time when approaching from either coastal area.
In 2019, local residents created an iron throne installation that became an unexpected landmark for the village and a symbol of community pride. This artistic project demonstrates how the settlement's name inspired residents to craft something tangible and memorable.
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