- LocationEmprosnero, Municipality of Apokoronas, 40 km from Chania
- HistoryBuilt by Venetians, reconstructed by Turks, destroyed by Sfakians in 1774
- ArchitectureFour domed structures, defensive design with a strategic location
- SightsPanoramic views of Apokoronas and Akrotiri, rich natural beauty
- ActivitiesExplore Cretan history, tour the area
- AccessVia provincial road from Chania (40 km)
- FacilitiesTraditional tavernas with Cretan cuisine in Vryses and nearby villages
Alidakis Tower is located in the village of Emprosnero, in the municipality of Apokoronas, approximately 40 kilometers from Chania. This significant historical monument of Crete was originally built during the Venetian period and later reconstructed by the Ottomans. It served as the residence and fortress of Ibrahim Alidakis, a notorious Janissary leader in the 18th century, known for his oppression of the local population.
Strategically positioned in a high location, the tower offers a panoramic view of the Apokoronas region and Akrotiri. Its original design included four vaulted structures, and its defensive architecture served the needs of both protection and supervision of the surrounding area.
Ibrahim Alidakis became the owner of the tower in the 18th century, using it as a base to control the local population and expand his influence. After the failed revolution of Daskalogiannis in 1770, Alidakis prepared to retaliate against the Sfakians, but they acted first. In 1774, the Sfakians attacked the tower, killing Alidakis and his guards.
After the tower's destruction, Alidakis's descendants continued to use the estate for many years. Before the 1886 revolution, the tower was sold to the Pirinis family, who occupied it until the early 20th century. During World War II, it was used as a police station. In 1962, the tower was declared a historical monument, but restoration efforts remain incomplete.
The tower is located in an elevated area with panoramic views of Apokoronas and Akrotiri, offering visitors the chance to enjoy the natural beauty of the region. The lush vegetation, mountains, and traditional architecture of the nearby villages make it an ideal location for hiking and exploration.
Access to Alidakis Tower is via a provincial road from Chania (about 40 km east), and the road is suitable for cars. In the surrounding area, visitors can explore traditional villages such as Vryses, where there are tavernas serving traditional Cretan cuisine, and other archaeological sites.