The Venetian village of Etia on Crete

In the southeast of Crete near the village of Armeni are the remnants of the old Venetian village Etia. The houses in the village are in ruins, the streets and alleys are empty, and the large Venetian private villa on the outskirts of the village is being restored (2008) to its former glory. This is perhaps the most beautiful private Venetian villa on the island and it belonged to the De Mezzo family. It dates from the 15th century. It is a witness to the wealth of the former conquerors. Etia already existed in the Byzantine period, but prospored most during the Venetian occupation. In the village of Etia there are also a couple of beautiful old churches (including two Byzantine) that are worth having a look at.