The metochi estates: the Upper and Lower Mullah Hanum metochi estates

The Upper and Lower Mullah Hanum estates are located on the western part of the Nerokouros village, where the Chania plains end at the base of Mount Malaxas. Both estates were granted to Asia Minor refugees after the population exchange.

Very little remains of these estates. On the Upper metochi, the dwelling has been demolished. We can assume that it was luxurious based on the remains of the outdoor spaces: a water fountain with small lion heads and a covered water reservoir. Parts of the hammam baths have also survived.

On the Lower estate, the northern and the western gates of the complex still stand. Modern residences have been built on the estate lands, using elements of the original building. A dome that used to cover a well also survives. Both estates get their water from a natural spring via a stone channel which guided the waters towards Mullah Hanum. Along the channel there were small domed holes which gave the villagers access to the water.

The photographs depict what remains of the two estates today. The first one shows the northern entrance of the Lower Mullah Hanum, photographed from inside the metochi. We can see where the entrance to the passage has been widened to make space for cars. The second and third photograph show the western gate and the dome that covers the well. The photographs are reproduced courtesy of the photographer, Stella Manioudaki. The next photographs depict details from what remains of the outdoor elements. First, the water fountain on the Upper Mullah Hanum. The basin fills with water which then flows out of the many small lion heads around the lip. Finally, the domed hole on the side of the stone channel which guided the water towards the estates.