“there is a kind of flame in crete...something more powerful than either life or death. there is pride, obstinacy, valour, and together with these something else inexpressible and imponderable, something which makes you rejoice that you are human being, and at the same time tremble” - nikos kazantzakis
loose yourself on crete, europe’s southernmost frontier and an island of stark contrasts. from the snow-capped mountains of the interior, looming imposingly over tiny, crumbling villages, to the elegant seafront resorts that fringe the changeable waters of the mediterranean sea, crete is sure to enrapture your soul. the island’s rugged landscape hosts a particularly bountiful crop of herbs, and the heady scents of rosemary, thyme, oregano, chamomile and fennel perfume the air throughout the year.
the largest of the greek islands, measuring 160 miles in length, the cretan landscape is a kaleidoscope of towns and villages all with their own unique aura. from heraklion, the capital and fourth largest city in greece, to tiny loutro and its quiet pebble beach, there’s something for everyone on this eclectic island. every summer, the international jet-set descend on the chic village of elounda, overlooking the sparkling waters of the mirabello bay and a favourite of international personalities from leonardo dicaprio and lady gaga to the saudi royal family. dinner at the calypso elounda peninsula is a unique experience and particular favourite with yacht-owners moored nearby, whilst the more laid-back lotus eaters serves fresh, local fare in a luxuriously peaceful location.
the island’s long coastline also offers a range of conditions suited to different water sports, from jet skiing and parasailing to kitesurfing and sailing. ikite provides premium, professional kiteboarding in heraklion, whilst the best surfing is found during the winter at phalasarna beach in the chania region.
epochal times is a carefully restored historic residence located in the hillside village of maroulas near rethymno, one of crete’s best-preserved traditional settlements. recognised as a protected landmark by the ministry of culture, the property traces its origins to the late minoan iii period and has been thoughtfully renovated to preserve its architectural identity while adapting it for contemporary living.
positioned approximately 150 metres above sea level, the residence forms part of the historic fabric of the village, where centuries of architectural history remain visible in the scale, proportions and character of the surrounding environment. the house sits naturally within its setting, combining traditional construction with a restoration approach that respects the building’s heritage without compromising comfort or practicality.
arranged across three levels connected by a lift, the interiors retain the strong architectural presence that defines the property. exposed stonework, timber ceilings, original structural elements and generous proportions create spaces that feel authentic to the building’s history, while careful interventions introduce a greater sense of openness and ease of use. throughout the house, natural materials and a restrained palette allow the architecture itself to remain the focal point.
the principal living spaces unfold through a series of interconnected rooms where historical character and contemporary living coexist comfortably. original features have been preserved and integrated into the overall design, creating interiors that feel cohesive rather than restored in parts. the atmosphere is warm and grounded, shaped by texture, proportion and the enduring quality of the original construction.
the residence includes three bedrooms arranged to provide privacy across the different levels of the house. deep-set openings, traditional proportions and natural finishes create calm and comfortable private spaces, while the overall layout allows each room to maintain its own distinct relationship with the architecture of the property.
the upper level opens onto a terrace overlooking the surrounding countryside, coastline and sea beyond. elevated above the village rooftops, this part of the house benefits from expansive views across northern crete and a strong sense of connection to the wider landscape. as daylight moves across the hills towards the coast, the changing colours of the terrain and sea become an integral part of the experience of the property.
located a short distance from rethymno and the northern coastline, epochal times combines historical significance, architectural integrity and contemporary comfort within a village setting that continues to reflect the cultural heritage and enduring character of crete.
