Lassithi Ancient Pressos

Location: Episkopi

The ancient city of Pressos is an archaeological treasure located in the Lassithi Plateau. It is a lesser-known marvel that offers visitors a unique window into the island’s rich history.

Pressos was a significant city-state during the Minoan period and continued to thrive through the Hellenistic times. The first inhabitants were the Eteocretans, who abandoned their Minoan settlements after the Dorian invasion, establishing new homes, and preserving their cultural heritage. Following the example of Dorian cities, they soon established a democratic status. Archaeological surveys have unraveled the existence of Minoan inscriptions written with Greek characters, a key element to the long process of deciphering the Minoan language.

Ancient Pressos expands across three hills used as citadels, reflecting advanced urban planning. Should you visit Pressos you will encounter foundations of grand buildings, fortifications, houses, and a network of ancient roads. Yet, one of the striking features is the city’s acropolis, located on the highest hill, which offers a bewitching view of the surrounding landscape.
Among many artifacts such as weapons and figurines, the excavations have discovered altars, and a tomb of an athlete with prices probably originated from the Panathenaic Games.

Ancient Pressos was a flourishing city with significant economic and military power. During antiquity, it dominated a large part of east Crete, including two harbors, one on the north, Itia, the modern Sitia, and one on the south, named Stiles. However, Pressos struggled to compete with other important city-states, such as Itanos and Ierapytna, especially for the control of the sanctuary of Zeus Dicteos in Palekastro. The once-blooming city was completely destroyed around 155 BC by its rivals. The inhabitants abandoned their homes once and for all, establishing New Pressos on the north coast.

Ancient Pressos offers its visitors an astonishing glimpse into Crete’s multicultural past. Framed by lush vegetation and the wild beauty of the Lassithi Plateau one can wander around the city’s ruins becoming familiar with the site’s profound historical significance. Should you visit Ancient Pressos, don’t miss the picturesque village of Sitia in the north.