Vathypetro Minoan villa

Vathypetro Minoan villa is a complex of stone buildings with porticos and light wells spread across three connected hills. The site comprises residential areas, storage rooms, and production facilities that reveal the varied functions of this Bronze Age farming estate.

Excavations between 1949 and 1956 uncovered a structure dating to 1580 BCE that suffered earthquake damage around 1550 BCE. The discovery illustrates how natural disasters periodically disrupted life in Minoan Crete.

The site displays ancient wine and olive production facilities that reveal how Minoans organized their food and trade activities. These working areas were essential to the economic life and daily rhythms of this Bronze Age society.

The site remains open year-round without entrance fees and sits five kilometers south of Archanes at the foothills of Mount Iuktas. Visitors should bring water and wear sturdy shoes, as the excavations span uneven ground without shelter.

The complex contains rare ashlar masonry and a possible tripartite shrine aligned to equinoxes. This astronomical orientation suggests the builders considered stellar movements when planning the structure.

Location: Archanes-Asterousia Municipality

GPS coordinates: 35.20981,25.15083

Latest update: December 14, 2025 13:01