The name Pachna is thought to originate from the ancient Greek word “πάχνη” (pachni) which relates to the morning white frost found on leaves following a chilly night.

Another explanation could come from the alternative meaning of “πάχνη”, a manger, in reference to its protected location amidst the surrounding high hills.

By 1985 statistics 830 hectares of land were registered with the agriculture department as cultivated with wine or table vines, making it the largest grape producing village on the island.

Evidence that vines have been cultivated here since ancient times came from pottery found in excavations nearby (at Ayia Marina settlement).

Most of these older buildings (and many houses) are built in the local Pachna stone which has its own unique chalky yellow character.