During 1917 and 1918 the scenic landscape we see today was a heaven on earth and rightly enchanted N. Kazantzakis. There were only two houses in its wider area and three paths that allowed access to the sea. Oleanders and myrtles, fig trees and orchards covered the fine white sand, which was filled with brooks. "I was playing, filling my hands with fine sand and letting it slip warm, soft, between my fingers. My palm became an hourglass through which life falls away and is lost. I lose sight of life and I look at the sea, I hear Zorba and my skull buzzes with happiness." (Zorba the Greek, pg. 89)