Cozy in the Cretan Countryside

Sun pours in through the kitchen window. Notice the dainty napkin holder, crocheted by Maria's mother.

On Sunday, we celebrated Mardi Gras in the Cretan
countryside, where this beautiful, old-world home is part
 of a picturesque, little village, that overlooks the Libyan sea.

 The house's facade boasts original stone, while a carpet of Minoan colours covers the courtyard.

 The house, over 200 years old, belongs to my brother-in-law,

Alexander, and his wife, Maria. Purchased about twenty 

years ago, the couple painstakingly restored it, after it

 had been tragically abandoned and derelict for decades.

Solid stone walls multi-task, protecting the house from heat in the summer and cold in the winter.

  An arched doorway, marked with a cross from the Holy Light of last year's Resurrection ceremony, leads directly into the cozy kitchen.

                                  Original wooden beams support the ceilings, while a cast iron pan, once                                    belonging to Maria's grandmother, hangs on thickly splattered, stucco walls.

 Once inside, you are greeted by a large fireplace, original to 
the house, where most of the daily meals were once prepared.

Open shelving displays everyday crockery, including tiny cups
 for those mornings when strong, Greek coffee is a must!

A fireplace is nestled in the corner; the perfect spot for knitting or an afternoon nap!

 

Another door, also accessed from the courtyard, leads
to a dramatic, open plan living and dining room.

Maria takes a break from cooking, while the men light the outdoor ovens for bread and roasted dishes.

 Here, the second fireplace is situated, along with a wood stove,
 both used for heating the space, but also for cooking.

One of two outdoor wood ovens; this one was once the only oven catering to the entire village.

In addition, there are two outdoor wood ovens located in the courtyard, which are used for baking large quantities of food,

and making sure everyone is toasty and comfy when 
dining al fresco during the cooler, winter months.

At one point, the house was transformed into a tavern,
and the second level, equally spacious and efficient,



  boasted private dining rooms and breathtaking views of the sea.

 I have always had a weakness for these exquisitely crafted
stone structures, and feel very lucky when I get to explore
 and appreciate their unique history and charm.

 Thank you to Maria and Alexander, for their gracious
hospitality, and a very memorable Mardi Gras, at their
delightful home, in the hilly countryside of Crete.

Thanks for visiting!
 xo
Poppy

All images: Poppy View 

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