Gramvousa's fort remained in Ottoman hands until 1825 where 300 Cretans returned from a fight in Peloponnese, disguised as Turks gained the control of the fort and use it as their base. Ottomans besieged the Cretans for more than two years. In order for them to survive, they frequently attacked passing ships usually of Turkish or Egyptian origin. Piracy became their primarily occupation and at the same time their community got organized and they built a school and a church. The church was named 'Panagia i Kleftrina' which translates to 'Mother of God for the thieves' and it was dedicated to the wifes of the pirates.
Photo taken at Imeri Gramvousa