Carrentalstop | Cretan people, activities and traditions
As a result of Crete's geographic position and its rich history, the Cretans have always been subjected to a variety of influences. This remains true today, given the importance of tourism in recent years. However. The particular character of the islanders has not changed. They have always stubbornly retained a passion for independence and freedom and a deep love for their homeland. a love that has been strengthened by their struggles against the various invaders. They are warm, hospitable and friendly to strangers, optimistic, and open-hearted.
In their daily life, they simply live despite foreign influences; otherwise, they retain their customs and traditions. Especially in the villages and small towns, one still sees men in the characteristic local "vraka" (long baggy trousers), a black fringed kerchief, and high boots. The Cretans love dancing and eating. They relish feast days and holidays, wed dings, and festive gatherings, which in most villages are enjoyed with the same love and high spirits as of yore.
They dance the lively local dances, the "Pendozalis''. the "Chaniotiko", the"Sousta'' and others, and sing the lovely ...Mantinade ", or serenades, with their eloquent rhymes. so full of meaning, and the characteristic sound of the tradition.
The island's population is 600,000 inhabitants, who live for the most part in the larger towns of Heraklion, Chania, Rethymnon, and Agios Nikolaos. The urban population is engaged in commerce and cottage industry, the developing industrial sector, agriculture, and the tourism industry, which has played a major role in the economic development of the island of Crete over the last decade.
Several factors account for this, among which are Crete's fascinating archaeological sites, its mild climate, lovely beaches, and clean sea, together with the hospitality of its people and the variety of its landscape.
The infratructure of the island has been developing, and impetus has been given to the construction of a high-quality hotel and tourist complexes, so that Crete today constitutes a very important tourist
centre of international fame.
A relatively large proportion of rural inhabitants are engaged in agriculture and animal husbandry, whereas in coastal areas, fishing is an important activity.
Special emphasis has been placed on modernising work methods and machinery to achieve the highest possible productivity. The processing of agricultural and dairy products and their standardisation account for a significant share of the workforce.
Traditional activities are still practised by the villagers. There are still women who have handlooms in their homes, where they weave colourful patterns, while others embroider. producing beautiful articles in traditional design.
The age-old art of pottery is still practised, and potters today work their supple material with the same dexterity and artistic sense as their Minoan ancestors.
The grape harvest in September is an open-air fe activity for all to join in.
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