Pretty as a picture postcard, Platanistassa is home to one of the island 's most notable Byzantine monuments: The Church of Ayiasmati.

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Platanistassa nestles on the slopes of Papoutsa and Pamboula mountains at
a height of 1,000 metres above sea level. Its craggy, mountainous location is one of great natural beauty.
Platanistassa was established in AD 1200 when three small communities were combined. The chronicler Voustronios notes that Platanistassa, along with Vavatsinia and Dali, were jointly given to Giorgios Kontarini, Count of Jaffa, in 1475.

The village has two central churches: The Archangel Michael (St Michael) and Ayios Cannes of Prodromos. The first, built in the 18th century, features a wooden roof, and the church is distinguished by the fact that it is decorated with old plates. Its gold trimmed iconostasis is unique. The much older church of Ayios Cannes of Prodromos was rebuilt in the 18th century.

Set in the forest, but still within the administrative boundaries of Platanistassa, is the renowned Church of Ayiasmati. Some of its outstanding frescoes depicting the life of Christ and the Virgin Mary were painted in 1494. Others depict the founding of the Holy Cross, combining scenes from the life of Constantine the Great and the Old Testament. Recognised by UNESCO as a significant historical treasure trove, the Church of Ayiasmati appears on its World Heritage List as an important example of Byzantine culture .

Platanistassa took its name from the Greek word 'platani', meaning an area with maple trees. Today, however, there are not many maples, but the village has a wealth of pines and interesting flora of botanical interest. In spring, the sweet songs of the nightingales are known to keep residents awake.

Acres of flourishing vineyards contribute to the beauty of the village, and a sea of hazelnut trees, almonds and walnuts, along with cherry trees, apple, pear and other fruit-bearing trees, add striking tones of their own to a village that seems to have more than its fair share of greenery.
>Platanistassa is a delightful haven for holidays, rest and recreation - a centre of agrotourism and eco-tourism There is also an interesting nature trail that extends from the Church of Ayiasmati to the Church of Panayia tou Araka.

Both the village and the Church of Ayiasmati are served by a good network of roads. Thousands of visitors from all over the world converge on the village and enjoy the cool dry climate, the picturesque streets and footpaths, the fountains, streams and natural beauty. No-one can fail to be moved by the panoramic view of the valley - a spectacular mass of hazelnut trees - the charming village square, the sight of thousands of blossoming almond trees around the village, and above all the warm hospitality of the very few inhabitants of Platanistassa.

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