Tholi Winepresses

In a prominent position overlooking the fertile valley, between the hill of Profitis Ilias and Karteros River, a large area with dimensions 6.56m x 4.25m x 2.00m is preserved, close to a rural road at “Tholii” site, N.E. of Skalani. The roof has collapsed, but on the south side part of the domed roof is preserved. The location’s name “Tholii” is probably due to the domed ceilings of those sites. Two troughs are seen (filled with rubble) with dimensions 1.016m x 0.90m x 0.60m; one of them probably was a holding tank. In an adjacent area to the north, the bases of two winepresses – most probably – are preserved with total dimensions 5.65m x 2.75m x 1.00m.
Judging from its large spaces, this installation probably was used for mass production of wine and it was export-oriented. After all, it is located on a fertile hill, and it is relatively close to the port of Heraklion.