Aradena Village Guide
Aradena: A Ghost Village with a Thrilling Bridge Guide
Aradena, a deserted village perched on the edge of a dramatic gorge in the Sfakia region of Crete, offers a unique and somewhat eerie experience for visitors. The village itself is largely abandoned, with crumbling stone houses and a palpable sense of history. However, the main attraction is the Aradena Bridge, a modern steel bridge that spans the Aradena Gorge, connecting the village to the rest of the island. This bridge is not for the faint of heart, as it's a popular spot for bungee jumping, offering breathtaking views and an adrenaline rush. Aradena's history is marked by tragedy and conflict. The village was once a thriving community, but a bloody feud in the 1950s led to its abandonment. The feud, sparked by a trivial argument, resulted in several deaths and forced many residents to flee the village. The Aradena Bridge was built in 1986 to reconnect the village and encourage its repopulation, but it remains largely deserted. The church of Archangel Michael, located in the village, is still maintained and occasionally used for services. Visiting Aradena offers a mix of historical exploration and adventure. You can wander through the deserted village, imagining what life was once like in this remote community. Walking across the Aradena Bridge is a must, even if you don't plan on bungee jumping. The views from the bridge are spectacular, offering panoramic vistas of the gorge and the surrounding mountains. For the adventurous, bungee jumping is a thrilling experience that will leave you with unforgettable memories. While Aradena itself doesn't have specific culinary traditions, nearby villages offer traditional Cretan cuisine.
Transportation
The easiest way to reach Aradena is by car. The village is located on the road between Anopolis and Chora Sfakion. There is limited public transportation to the area, so renting a car is highly recommended.