Welcome To 5 Dreamy Villas

Elegance and Comfort

The tradition of raki In Crete and its roots

An island that simply has it all!!!

Crete, the largest and southernmost island in Greece, is a captivating destination that weaves together a rich history, culture, and natural beauty. Boasting a Mediterranean climate, in Crete you can find long, sun-drenched summers and mild winters, making it a year-round paradise for travelers seeking to bask in its perfect climate. The island's diverse landscapes encompass golden beaches, rugged mountains, fertile valleys, and captivating gorges, creating a breathtaking backdrop for an unforgettable tourist experience.

Whether you feel like trying tasty Cretan food or traditional Cretan drinking, in Crete your needs will be surely satisfied leaving you with the unforgettable feeling of anticipation to try even more! Crete, offers an extraordinary tourist experience from which raki cannot be excluded! Raki, also known as Tsikoudia or Cretan Tsikoudia, holds a significant place in the history and culture of Crete. It is a traditional distilled spirit made from grape pomace, which is the residue left after pressing grapes for winemaking. Raki has deep roots in Cretan tradition and plays an essential role in social gatherings and celebrations referring as traditional Cretan drinking in Crete. As far as the historical background is concerned the origins of raki can be traced back to the period of Ottoman rule in Crete, which lasted from the early 17th century until the late 19th century. During this time, the production and consumption of alcoholic beverages were controlled by the Ottoman rulers, leading to the secret distillation of raki in small quantities by Cretan families.

Resisting Ottoman restrictions, Cretans used the traditional 'kazani,' a small pot still, to clandestinely distill raki in their homes. This practice allowed them to preserve their cultural identity and maintain a sense of unity and solidarity among the Cretan people during a challenging time of foreign rule. Raki has transcended its historical roots to become an integral part of Cretan culture. It is often referred to as the 'spirit of Crete' and is considered as traditional Cretan drinking, deeply cherished by both locals and visitors. Raki is associated with hospitality and is typically offered as a welcoming sign to guests. Sharing a glass of raki is a customary gesture of friendship and camaraderie in Cretan society.

The whole process of distillation of raki is called “kazanema” or “kazanemata” and takes place from early November until January of every year. For those who wonder how this magical spirit is made, the process of making raki begins with the collection of grape pomace after the grape harvest. The pomace is then placed in a kazani and heated over an open flame. As the liquid vaporizes, it passes through a coil and condenses, resulting in the final product - the strong and clear Cretan raki. In modern times, the production and consumption of raki have evolved. While the traditional homemade raki is still made by some families for personal use, commercial distilleries now produce raki on a larger scale.

However, in the entire process of the kazani, its significance extends beyond mere economic activity. Primarily, it embodies a social phenomenon and longstanding tradition. A group of 2 to 50 individuals or even more can be found around a kazani. Because of its distinctive characteristics, during the production of raki, the kazani may remain operational for one, two, or even more days, depending on the quantity of grapes available for distillation. This paves the way for a day-long festivity, allowing guests to join in at any time. The evening's outcome is shaped by Cretan songs, dance, and the performances of local traditional musicians, setting the highest standards for the event. Raki has also become a popular souvenir for tourists visiting Crete, especially in famous Cretan locations such as Rethymno or its close villages such as Adele, Margarites and Anogeia, places where many restaurants and taverns offer raki as a complimentary drink at the end of a meal.

Crete promises an exceptional tourist experience, immersing visitors in the island's rich history and cultural traditions. Indulge in delicious Cretan cuisine and the renowned local spirit, raki. With deep roots in Cretan tradition, raki transcends its historical origins, becoming a cherished part of the island's identity. Enjoying a glass of raki is a customary gesture of hospitality, bringing people together. The production process, marked by the traditional kazani, adds to the unique charm of this unforgettable Cretan tourist experience.

The Perfect Place To Stay.
Reserve Now!

Check-in
Check-out
Persons