tourism

Heraklion Honors Mantinada Legend Michalis Stefanakis at Tribute Evening

Thursday, 9 July 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Heraklion hosted a special tribute evening titled "A Mantinada, a Whole Life..." honoring Michalis Stefanakis, one of Crete's most respected mantinada performers. The event was organized by the Folklore Group "Lazaros and Manolis Hnaris." Mantinada is a traditional Cretan art form consisting of improvised rhyming couplets, performed in the local dialect and often accompanied by the lyra. It has been practiced on the island for centuries and remains a living part of Cretan identity, heard at weddings, festivals, and cultural gatherings across the region. Events like this one offer visitors a genuine window into Cretan culture beyond the beach. Keep an eye on the program of local folklore groups in Heraklion, as these evenings are typically open to the public and free to attend. Check with your accommodation or the municipal cultural office for upcoming dates.

Read original article → CretaOne