The phiti vase used for storage or decoration.

The Phiti vases date from the Minoan age and are known for their enormous measurements. In the past they were used for storage, nowadays however, they are made and bought as decoration.

The vases consist of 5 or 6 rings and it takes two persons to make such a ring. Each ring needs to dry for 5 or 6 days. Afterwards, they are placed on top of each other and stuck together. Then, the fresh Phiti are baked in the oven for eight hours at a temperature of 1100 degrees Celsius.

In the past, but also today, cretan soil was used for the production of Phitis. The red soil, that is hard and dry, is grinded into powder. Then water is added and with the help of feet the substance is kneaded into mud and clay.