CRETE

Spili is a small mountain village with about 700 inhabitants, which lies 30 km south of Rethymnon about half way on the road to Agia Galini on the south coast. The name Spili is derived from 'spileon' meaning 'cave' as there is a nearby cave. You can explore it, but it's not developed for tourism.

Spili is a lovely place with a charming atmosphere situated in a fertile, wooded area beneath the Voritzi Mountain. Cobbled streets, flowered balconies and houses with Venetian arches along winding streets welcomes the visitor. The village is famous for its exceptionally good drinking water and its fountain at the village square, the so-called 'Kefalovrissi'. Here 350 m3 of water flows from the mouths of 19 lions every hour.

There are quite a number of cafes and tavernas along the main street of Spili. Above the square with the fountain, narrow streets lead to the upper part of the village from where you have beautiful panoramic views. Spili is also home to a new theological seminary which lies just at the main street as one enters the village.