The area of Agia Pelagia is almost totally owned by people who came down from the high village of Ahlada.  Most of this occurred in the 1970s, a time when tourism began to flourish in this part of Crete.  In fact, as early as 1965 some perceptive locals foresaw the touristic development of the area and began purchasing land around the bay for 17 euros for 1,000 square metres. Today, Ahlada is inhabited almost exclusively by elderly people, and the ruined houses and empty streets give it the appearance of a phantom village.  This, of course, is a pity, since this quaint village is situated on top of the mountain over Agia Pelagia, offering an incredible view of the Fodele bay and the sea beyond.