• Location74 km from Heraklion, 30 km from Ierapetra.
• Natural environmentA lush valley with rich vegetation and fruit-bearing trees
• Natural attractionsBlavopotamos River, Smoky Gorge, multiple caves (Zymbraga, Kissospilios, Leri, etc.)
• Archaeological sitesSanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite at Krya Vrysi
• HistoryMentioned since 1583

Kato Symi is one of the most beautiful villages in the Viannos Municipality, situated in a lush valley full of fruit trees. The area boasts the largest forest coverage in the Heraklion region, offering visitors a unique sense of tranquility and serenity. The Symi Forest, connected to the Selakano Forest, is rich with species like walnut, cherry, apricot, and pear trees, adding to the enchanting landscape.

A key feature of Kato Symi is the Blavopotamos River, which runs through the village and flows toward Faflango, eventually reaching the Libyan Sea. The village retains the traditional charm of Crete's mountain villages, while also offering a variety of natural and archaeological attractions. Significant archaeological sites can be found in the area, such as the Sanctuary of Hermes and Aphrodite at Krya Vrysi, highlighting the historical heritage of Crete.

Kato Symi is also known for its natural sites, including impressive caves like Zymbraga Spiliara, Kissospilios, Leri Cave, Boumboulis Cave, Riza Cave, and Halavra Cave. One of the most unique landmarks is the Smoky Gorge, where, according to legend, the giant Sarantapihos once lived.

The village's history is just as remarkable as its natural beauty. It was first mentioned in the 1583 census by Castrofilaka, under the name "Simi Catto" with 146 inhabitants. During the Ottoman occupation, the area suffered from atrocities, including the tragic story of two women who leapt from the Gkoupo cliffs to avoid dishonor by the Turks. In September 1943, during the German occupation, the village was heavily damaged when the Nazis retaliated for the death of 84 of their soldiers at the hands of local partisans. The heroic resistance of the locals is commemorated by a monument to those who fell in the Battle of Kato Symi.

In Kato Symi, visitors can explore religious landmarks, including the churches of Afentis Christos, St. John the Baptist, St. George, and the Church of the Virgin Mary of Galatoktismeni and Nistikoktismeni. According to local tradition, the latter was built using milk instead of water and stands as a symbol of atonement for a local Venetian lord's misdeeds. The story recounts how the lord of Symi assaulted the wife of the lord of Heraklion, leading to his eventual punishment and his wife's commissioning of the church.

Kato Symi is located approximately 74 km from Heraklion and 30 km from Ierapetra, making it easily accessible for visitors eager to explore Crete's natural and historical treasures.