From the time when Penelope sewed and unraveled in the loom, to the present times, the contact point is the diachronic value of weaving tradition. Starting from the Ancient Greece, weaving was an important task for the vast majority of women, who are compared to the depictions of femininity, presented in any kind of art. As time goes by, the important role of textile presence and production is proved in the social role of women. Even though the art of weaving has been admittedly reduced, Crete amongst Lefkada, Arachova, Kalamata tries to keep this tradition alive thanks to their strong sense of cultural heritage.
Cretan women are renowned for their skills in weaving and embroidery. Looms, were until recently, part of a traditional Cretan house, where all the necessary objects were designed with beautiful colors and unique geometrical patterns. These depictions, some came from Byzantium, were passed down from one generation to the next. Both household and decoration objects were handmade by the housekeepers. They are ranging from bedspreads, wall hangings, sofa covers, clothing, carpets and towels. Wool, flax, cotton and silk, frequently dyed with red color, are the most common materials. A special stitch known as “Rethymnian” is still a traditional characteristic embroidery way. Both Zoniana and Anogia are famous for their weaving, as are Spili and Axos villages.
The present standpoint for weaving legacy in Crete has completely changed since 2015 with the revival of the art under the “loom-project”. A modern Cretan effort, which is characterized, as a folklore conveyor to new generations.
