• Location23 km from Heraklion
• Αltitude of 440 m.
• PopulationApproximately 863 residents
• Main occupationsAgriculture, tourism, trade, and technical professions
• Labyrinth Musical WorkshopFounded by Ross Daly, hosts a unique museum of traditional instruments, renowned music festival
• Archaeological findingsClay head of goddess Athena, Hellenistic aqueduct remains, Middle Minoan figurines
• Religious landmarksChurches of Saint John the Theologian, Saint Paraskevi, Saint Nicholas, and more
• Historical significanceDocumented since 1279, involvement in the Battle of Crete

Houdetsi has become a vibrant cultural hub in Crete’s countryside, attracting enthusiasts of traditional music and Cretan culture. Located 23 km from Heraklion, it sits in a valley formed by the Laggos, Korfi, Skala, and Vigla mountains, at an altitude of 440 meters, and administratively belongs to the Archanes-Asterousia municipality. With around 863 residents, the village thrives in agriculture, tourism, and trade, while many locals engage in technical professions. The warmth and musicality of the villagers give the area its distinctive lively character.

The village’s picturesque charm, along with the locals’ devotion to music and traditional rhymes, were key reasons for renowned musician Ross Daly’s decision to settle in Houdetsi. With the support of the former Municipality of N. Kazantzakis, Daly established the celebrated "Labyrinth Musical Workshop" here. The workshop hosts the only museum of traditional musical instruments in Greece and draws musicians worldwide, especially during its annual music festival that fills the village streets with unique melodies.

Houdetsi’s rich history dates back to 1279, when it was referred to as "Casale Tudeti." It appears in various historical documents over the centuries, and Ottoman records show it as "Hodec," with both Christian and Muslim families residing until the population exchange. The village bravely resisted German invaders during the Battle of Crete, marking its historical role in the region’s fight for freedom.

Significant archaeological findings, such as the clay head of the goddess Athena (1952) and Hellenistic aqueduct remains, reveal the area’s deep historical roots. In 1961, Middle Minoan figurine fragments were found at Korfi, offering insights into its ancient past.

The village name likely derives from the Arabic word "guds," meaning "holy," as suggested by researcher Paul Faure. The village’s religious heritage includes the 1874 church of Saint John the Theologian, its frescoes—though whitewashed—adding historical depth. Several other beautiful churches, such as those of Saint Paraskevi, Saint Nicholas, and Saint Anthony, further add to the village’s charm.