Destination Crete

CRETE

Crete offers a rare beauty captured in the distinct landscape of every corner of the island. The southernmost point of Europe, Crete is the largest island in Greece and second largest in the Mediterranean, second to Cyprus. It is at the crossroads of three continents and five seas. Crete enjoys an extremely privileged, geographical position, which offers a rare combination of environmental and climate conditions. The island is composed of four counties: Chania, Rethymno, Herakleion, and Lasithi.

Mythology – History
Archaeological finds reveal that Crete was inhabited in the Neolithic Period (6.000 B.C.) However, the Minoan Period (2,600 – 1400 B.C.) representing the remarkable Minoans, the oldest civilisation in Europe, is the crowning point of the ancient Cretan legacy. The Palace of Knossos, throne of the legendary King Minos, verges on architectural perfection, with its sophisticated drainage system, storage rooms, labyrinth, the maze of winding passageways and, phenomenal wall paintings. During the Golden Age of the Minoan Period, lasting about 1,500 years, the Palaces of Phaistos and Maila were also built and still stand today. Many myths spring from this period, including Theuseus’ struggle with the Minotaur, the fearsome monster which was half bull, half man.

The island was eventually captured by the Romans, the Arabs, and, from the Middle Ages until its independence, came under Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman rules. After the fall of Constantinople in 1204, many intellects and artists sought refuge on Crete, which had become a melting pot of Eastern and Western cultures under the Venetians. The island became a centre for the letters and arts and was influenced by the Italian Renaissance, as well as by the Byzantine temperament. The renowned iconographer Damaskenos studied at the School of Painting, as well as El Greco. George Hortatsis, author of the dramatic work Erofili, and Vincezo Kornaros, author of Erotokritos were among the important literary figures. The Ottomans eventually conquered the island and, for two centuries, Crete was under Ottoman Rule. The Cretans have a proud nature and, defiantly, preserve their many, unique customs. For instance, a Cretan wedding or baptism could last for days, with an abundant pouring of the local spirit, tsikoudia or raki, repeatedly and generously offered to guests.

HERAKLEION
Herakleion is a beautiful seaside town, founded in 824, on the site of ancient Herakleion. Today’s city reflects its history in a blend of the Venetian and oriental influences. It is a modern, friendly city and also the market for the fine produce of Crete’s rich plains.

Worth a visit:

• The Chanioporta, which dates back to the second half of the 16th century
• The Town Fortress, with its impressive 3km long Venetian walls
• Eleftherios Venizelos, the main square with its beautiful fountain carvings and characteristic four lions
• The Venetian church of Saint Mark
• The church of Saint Minas, one of the most impressive churches in size, locale, and wood-carved icons from the 18th century.
• The Historic – Ethnographic Museum
• The Herakleion Archaeological Museum, dedicated to the Minoan civilisation
• The Museum of Cretan Ethnography
• The Municipal Museum of the Battle of Crete

Also, of particular interest are:

Knossos
Just 5 km south of Herakleion, the ancient site of Knossos, Palace of King Minos, fascinates the visitor with its size and sophistication. The largest palace in antiquity, measuring 20,000 square meters with 1,500 rooms, it is also known for its labyrinth of winding passageways.

Phaistos
Located 60km from Herakleion.The site is located on a small hill overlooking the Messora plain in southern Crete. Second in size after Knossos, the Palace was the home of Radamanthis, brother of the legendary King Minos. The famous Phaistos Disc, with the undecipherable, to date, Linear A script, was found here.

CHANIA
Chania, on the northwest coast of Crete, 2 ^1/2 hours from Herakleion, captivates the visitor with its history and charm. The town is noted for its beautiful public gardens, blend of cultural influences, ancient and modern monuments and picturesque Venetian Harbour.

A stroll through the town delights the senses with its blend of Venetian and Turkish architecture, the unique, Hasan Pasha Market, beautiful, hand-woven embroideries and the aroma of leather; Chania is noted for the production of Cretan boots and leather goods.

The 13th century Cathedral of Chania, the church of Saint Magdalene in Ruso-Byzantine style, the Venetian Palace with its heraldic emblem and Latin inscription, the 16th century Venetian lighthouse are just a few of the town’s highlights.

RETHYMNO
Rethymno is an hour from Herakleion on the northwest coast. This small Cretan city is known for its Venetian fortress, Renaissance architecture, museums and glorious beaches. Historically, under Byzantine, Arab, Venetian and Ottoman Rules, its landmarks reflect the legacies of these cultures. Under Venetian Rule, the town was adorned with many moments, such as the Loggia, a Renaissance monument characteristic of period Venetian architecture. There are churches, five mosques, fountains and neo classical buildings, which combine to create the exquisite setting of this beautiful town.

The Samaria Gorge:
It is the most impressive and longest gorge in Europe extending 18km. Designated as a National Park to protect the rare flora and fauna, including the kri kri goat, the gorge takes about 6 to 8 hours to walk. Beginning from Ksiloskalo, the route follows the river along a beautiful forest with tall trees, and offers the trekker spectacular views. Sideroportes (Iron Doors) is the most beautiful point of the trek where the two sides of the gorge are a mere 3 meters apart, at a height of 600 meters.

Matala:
71 km northwest of Herakleion: Matala is renowned for its unique landscape featuring small caves dug into rocky cliffs. The caves are suitable as dwellings and finds suggest there were home sites for prehistoric man. During the ‘60s, Matala was a favourite hippie destination on Crete for the generation of Flower Children seeking the natural life. Today, Matala, traditionally, a fishing village is an appealing destination for experience the unique landscape, fantastic beaches, relaxing days and a noted nightlife.

Information

Transportation
www.aia.gr, www.sixt.gr, www.ktel.gr, www.road.gr

Crete
www.cretan-history.gr, www.explorecrete.com, www.4crete.gr, www.creta-info.gr

Raki
www.raki.gr

Culture
www.culture.gr

General
www.meteo.gr, www.e-city.gr, www.sete.gr, www.travel.travel