Etia is a Medieval settlement in Lasithi provincial. During its heyday this settlement had more than 500 inhabitants. Etia Settlement & Villa De Mezzo
Located in the Armeno-Handras plateau south of Sitia, Etia is a remarkable medieval ghost village that was once one of the largest settlements in eastern Crete during the Venetian period.

The Abandonment & History:
Though the main asphalt road runs right alongside the settlement, Etia was gradually deserted by its residents mid-20th century, who moved to neighboring villages like Papagianades. Today, the village consists mainly of crumbling, roofless stone dwellings slowly reclaimed by surrounding vegetation, intermixed with a few carefully restored traditional structures.

Villa De Mezzo (Seragio):
The jewel of the settlement is the imposing Venetian Villa De Mezzo (known locally as "Seragio"), constructed in the late 15th century by the Venetian nobleman Pietro Dei Mezzo. Considered one of the grandest private country mansions built during Venetian rule on the island, this fortified estate later served as the residence for high-ranking Ottoman officials. Though its upper floors were destroyed during the 19th-century revolts, the restored ground level stands as a striking architectural centerpiece, complete with its famous Latin entrance inscription: "Intra vostra signoria senza rispetto" ("Enter, your Lordship, without hesitation").

Churches & Heritage:
Beside the Venetian mansion and stone ruins, the site hosts two well-preserved historic churches—Agia Aikaterini and Agios Ioannis—featuring traces of medieval frescoes that underscore the settlement's deep Byzantine roots.

Rider’s/Explorer's Notes:
The Access: Easily reached via smooth asphalt roads along the route connecting Sitia with the Ziros and Armeni plateau. Park safely along the roadside right next to the site for an easy, walkable walk through the ancient stone alleys and villa grounds.