On Tuesday, 20 October 2026, “Common Ground” explored Archanes, a historic town whose distinctive character and carefully preserved architecture evoke Crete during the years of the Cretan State.
Located in the Heraklion hinterland, a few kilometers south of the city and east of Mount Juktas, Archanes is one of Crete’s best-preserved traditional settlements. Its landmarks bear witness to a history stretching back to Minoan times, while viticulture has been part of local life for thousands of years. Trade in raisins, wine and olive oil brought residents the prosperity to build the impressive mansions that still grace the town, giving it a distinctive character that draws visitors from abroad.
Joining the program was Eirini Tachataki Oustagiannaki, a folklorist, author and educator whose name is synonymous with local folklore. She has devoted her life to documenting the area’s customs and traditions.
Leonidas Katsoprinakis, author and manager of the Folklore Museum, offered a closer look at the town’s history. Giannis Dourakis, president of the “I Charavgi” Nature and Excursion Club, discussed the delicate balance between tourism pressures and the need to preserve the town’s traditional identity. He also spoke about walking trails and places of interest on Mount Juktas.
Finally, Kostas Lydakis, owner of a long-established restaurant in Archanes, discussed local cuisine and the challenges facing gastronomy today.