- Region
- White Mountain foothills, Chania
- Distance
- About 15 km from Chania
- Altitude
- 580 m
- Museums
- Folklore (1985), National Resistance (2003)
The gorge road
The road climbs about 6 km through the Theriso gorge, between steep cliffs and plane trees. Drive slowly: it is narrow, and walkers and cyclists use it too.
1905 and Venizelos
Eleftherios Venizelos's mother was born in Theriso, and in 1905 Venizelos gathered the revolutionary assembly here that challenged and eventually ousted Prince George, then governor of Crete. It was a decisive step toward union with Greece.
The Folklore Museum, founded in 1985, occupies the assembly's former headquarters. The Museum of National Resistance, opened in 2003, covers the Second World War in Crete.
Lunch
Theriso's tavernas are known across Chania for grilled meat, local pies and mountain views. They are busiest on Sunday afternoons.
Going further
You can continue on rural roads toward the Keramia villages, including Drakona, before returning to Chania.
Questions before you go
Why is Theriso famous?
For the 1905 revolutionary assembly led by Eleftherios Venizelos.
How far is Theriso from Chania?
About 15 km, through the Theriso gorge.
Is Theriso worth visiting for food?
Yes, its tavernas are a favourite outing for Chania locals.
