INNOVATIVE CRETE: INCREDIBLE PRODUCTS AND INITIATIVES
Cretan IAMA
Cretan IAMA is the result of many years of research by distinguished scientists at the University of Crete, who have made a practical application of indigenous knowledge, in partnership with Οlvos Science. It contains essential oils from three herbs, Coridοthymus capitatus, Salvia fruticosa and Origanum dictamnus, in specific proportions, dissolved in extra virgin olive oil, and naturally contributes in strengthening the body’s defense.
Minoans were the first cosmetic producers that create herbal creams, ointments, oils and remedies that they would offer to royalty and export to neighbouring lands. Bioaroma is an inspiration from the vast history and heritage that surrounds the land of Crete. They have developed 100% natural herbal cosmetics based on research and archaeological finds that have been passed down from generation to generation. Their aim is to take the bounty from the earth they cultivate, together with the traditions to their past and offer a handmade product with the distinct identity.
In 2012, Jerolyn Morrison hosted her first Minoan Tastes dinner. It was no surprise – she is a fine art potter and a Fulbright scholar that explored the topic of what is Minoan cooking, with a Ph.D in archeology specialising in the cooking vessels of ancient Crete. With this background and passion, there was clearly nowhere to go but straight to the dinner table for a Minoan-style feast. Today, they welcome people from around the globe to join them under the prickly oak trees of Crete to learn more about this fascinating culture, cook in Minoan-style pots over live fire, and share a meal they won’t soon forget.
Aspros Potamos Traditional Houses
Built on the hillside in an evergreen, lush environment of incomparable beauty, ten traditional houses offer a spectacular view to the mountain and the canyon of Pefka. The settlement, with a history of 300 years, has been restored with great care and attention – the last renovation took place in 2011. The houses are built of natural stone in the colour of ocher, with thick, stone walls that make it cool in the summer and warm in the winter. The houses have no electricity and the photovoltaic system that has been installed in the hotel has won the first European prize for Greece, allowing hot water, the use of the refrigerator and the lighting inside the house and the garden.