to our place,

Built over the fertile valley of Mylopotamos, the village of Faratsi boasted 100 residents half a century ago. Seeking better living conditions in larger towns and abroad led to a steady decline and abandonment of the village until only Kostas Siganos remained in Faratsi year around; the lone faithful guard of the abandoned homes and the custodian of the soil’s bounty.

Soaring above the Cretan Sea at an altitude of 320 meter, picturesque Faratsi is a green swath of charm in the shadow of Mt. Psiloriti. Despite the grave wounds of decline and abandonment, Faratsi proudly maintains traditions and remembers beautiful memories and people. Yiani Galanos, the founder of Metzo Importers, always carries Faratsi in his heart. He returns regularly for business but more importantly to satiate his nostalgia, honor his ancestors and to celebrate life itself in the most hospitable Cretan way in his distillery party “Rakokazano”

To this magical place, they all return; in person, memories, even by contributions. Although Yiani’s adopted home is thousands of miles away, he finances the maintenance, upkeep and restoration of Faratsi.

Because our homeland is the sweetest corner of our minds, it will always invite us to return, remember and make beautiful memories for our children to live, return and remember.

No matter how far we go, the future will always pass through our memories.