The village of Orthonies is mentioned in various local documents of the 16th century as it had developed a remarkable culture. Its churches are unknown until now when they were first built and are monuments of religious art. According to tradition, the village had been moved at least twice. It was named, according to one version, after a visit to the village by the rulers of the island. The inhabitants, hospitable as ever, invited them to a meal and appointed three young girls as table-maids, who stood up while the officials ate to attend to them. This made a great impression on the guests and for some time they talked about the village with the "ortho-nies" (standing young girls in greek), so that the village became known as Orthonies.