- Region
- Mylopotamos, Rethymno
- Altitude
- About 630 m
- Population
- About 1,100
- Main sight
- Sfendoni cave
Village life
Livestock farming is the main occupation. Stone huts called mitata, used by shepherds for cheese-making and shelter, are scattered across the mountain. A local legend says the village was founded by a shepherd named Za who followed his runaway goat to a spring.
Sfendoni cave
The cave, with guided tours of about 25–30 minutes, is at the edge of the village and open daily from mid-April to October.
Also in the village
A small privately run wax museum presents scenes from Cretan history. Cafés and tavernas serve local cheese and grilled meat.
Nearby
Axos is a few kilometres down the road, and Anogia, the gateway to the Nida plateau, a few kilometres up.
Questions before you go
What is Zoniana known for?
The Sfendoni cave and its shepherding traditions.
How far is Zoniana from Anogia?
A few kilometres, about 10 minutes by car.
Is Zoniana in the Psiloritis geopark?
Yes, it lies within the Psiloritis Natural Park.
