A large, unique, and versatile building, ideally situated in the very center of the beautiful, historic and highly sought-after Cretan village of Kritsa, Crete.
Built in 1892 on a plot of 167 m², the property was expanded in 1960 and partially renovated in 1990 (mainly interior walls and floor tiling in most rooms).
The two-storey building comprises a total of 15 rooms, with an overall interior area of 297.93 m²:
Classified as an 'antique traditional mansion' by the Greek Government, it is subject to restoration guidelines that safeguard its authentic exterior while permitting thoughtful renovation.
The property consists of a front-side corner structure facing Kritsa's central shopping artery, seamlessly adjoined by a rear building.
The front house comprises, on the ground floor, two areas that can ideally be used as two independent shops, each with its own entrance and storefront, as they were in the past.
On the upper floor of the front building, there are two more rooms - a large room with a fireplace and a smaller room - with original wooden floors and ceilings. These rooms are accessible from the upper-floor terrace of the rear building and can be renovated and converted into an apartment or office suite. It would also be possible to connect the upper and lower floors via an internal staircase.
The rear building has two entrances on its side.
The first entrance (closer to the front building) leads into a room with a fireplace, which connects to:
a) one of the rooms (shops) in the front building, and
b) a smaller room without windows that can serve as a bedroom or storage space.
The second entrance leads into another room, which opens to a semi-open area with steps leading up to the upper floor.
On the upper floor of the rear building, there is a generously sized, elongated terrace offering serene views across the neighborhood, hills, and mountains.
This level also hosts an apartment comprising a living room with air conditioning, a bedroom, a kitchen, and a bathroom (shower). The apartment has direct access to the terrace from both the living room and the bedroom.
From this level, an external staircase ascends from the first floor to a rooftop vantage point boasting even more expansive vistas.
The property is connected to electricity, water, telephone, and internet. The apartment on the upper floor of the rear building is ready for immediate occupancy.
This is an excellent and rare opportunity for investors and entrepreneurs looking to acquire a property with outstanding potential, suitable for a wide range of uses - commercial premises, rental apartments, or permanent residence(s) - right in the heart of the largest, most beautiful, and most frequently visited traditional village in the prefecture of Lasithi.
The property is located about a 10-minute drive (8.5 km) from the coastal tourist town of Agios Nikolaos - capital of the prefecture of Lasithi - and several beautiful beaches.
Approx. 55 minutes (68 km) from Heraklion International Airport.
Kritsa is one of the oldest and most picturesque villages in Crete, located about 10 km southwest of Agios Nikolaos. Built amphitheatrically on the slopes of Kastellos Hill, at an altitude of around 330 m, it offers magnificent views of olive groves, the mountains, and Mirabello Bay.
The village is renowned for its traditional charm, narrow cobblestone streets, and vibrant courtyards, as well as its rich cultural heritage and local crafts, particularly weaving and embroidery.
Besides being a beloved tourist destination, Kritsa has also become increasingly popular among expatriates from many European countries and other parts of the world, who are drawn to its authentic atmosphere, friendly community, and high quality of life.
The village is well-equipped with essential amenities, including shops, supermarkets, traditional tavernas, cafés, a pharmacy, a medical center, and regular public transport connections to Agios Nikolaos, ensuring both comfort and convenience for residents.
Nearby are significant attractions such as the famous Byzantine church of Panagia Kera with its exceptional frescoes and the ancient Dorian city of Lato, a major archaeological site.
Kritsa combines authentic Cretan tradition with warm hospitality, making it a cherished destination for visitors and new residents alike throughout the year.