Aftathias Beach, Crete: A unique blend of pebbles, coarse sand, and tranquil waters, nestled near a river and a military airport. A haven for families and nature lovers.
Minoan settlement in Crete featuring a Royal Villa, workshops, and burial sites. Artifacts include the Hagia Triada sarcophagus and the Chieftain’s Cup.
Apezana Monastery, located in Crete's Asterousia Mountains, is a 15th-century sanctuary dedicated to Saint Anthony. It features a fortified design, a church with a carved iconostasis, and a rich history intertwined with Cretan resistance and Orthodox faith.
Association for People with Special Needs (AMEA) "The Future" in Faneromeni, Crete, empowers individuals with disabilities through therapeutic programs, sports, and accessibility initiatives.
Phaistos, a significant Minoan city in Crete, second in importance to Knossos, located in the Messara Plain. It dates back to 4000 BCE with a palace built in 1900-1700 BCE. The city was destroyed by an earthquake around 1700 BCE and rebuilt with a larger palace. Phaistos had connections with Knossos, Hagia Triada, and Gortyn. Important findings include the Phaistos Disk, Kamares Ware, and architectural remains. After a decline, Phaistos was reoccupied in the Hellenistic period (c. 323-67 BCE) until conquered by Gortyn.
The Hermitage of Agios Efthymios is a cave hermitage in Crete with frescoes and the saint's tomb, offering a glimpse into the ascetic tradition of the island.
The Roman Tombs of Kamilari, located in southern Crete, are an archaeological site that offers a glimpse into the island's history during the Roman period. Discovered in 2010, the tombs are situated at the foot of Evgora Hill, close to Metochi Kamiliariou. The area was known locally as "Xospilios," possibly derived from the Greek word for cave ("spilaio"). The tombs are estimated to have been constructed around 50 AD, based on discovered coins, and provide valuable insights into Roman burial practices. The site is under the supervision of the Archaeological Service.
Kamilari is a village in the Asterousia mountains of Crete. Its history dates back to the Minoan era. The village's name, first recorded in 1370, is likely derived from the Byzantine family name "Kamelaris" or the term "Hamilon Oros," meaning "Low Mountain."
Kamilari is archaeologically significant, with nearby sites like the Minoan palace of Phaistos and the Kamilari Tholos Tomb. The discovery of a bothros containing terracotta figures from the Geometric period confirms the area's long history of human presence.
The village's Cultural Association works to preserve local traditions and customs. Kamilari offers a unique experience for visitors to Crete.
Lagolio is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Phaistos and is 4.4 kilometers away from the town Tympaki and 9.7 kilometers away from Moires
Lasaia, an ancient coastal town in Crete, was a vital port with a rich history spanning from the Minoan to Roman periods. Its well-preserved harbor complex played a crucial role in maritime trade and cultural exchange.
The Monumental Olive Tree, or “Mana Elia,” is a 2,800-year-old olive tree located in Kamilari, Crete. It has been designated a natural monument due to its size and historical significance. The tree has a base perimeter of 9.5 meters and its trunk is marked by age. The Kamilari Cultural Association has placed twelve large stones around the tree for protection. Eight of the stones are carved with the double axe symbol associated with the Minoan civilization. Mana Elia is near the Kamilari Tholos Tomb and the Minoan Palace of Phaistos. It is a “Thrombolia” variety olive, locally called “Hontrolia,” grafted onto a wild olive rootstock. This grafting technique ensures the tree’s continued health. Mana Elia is a popular tourist attraction and represents Crete’s history of olive cultivation. It is valued for its historical and cultural significance.
Secluded beach in the Asterousia Mountains of Crete, accessible via a scenic gorge hike. The beach features pebbles, calm waters, and historical significance.
A seaside haven on Crete's south coast, blends ancient history, hippie legacy, and beach paradise. The caves, once home to prehistoric and Roman dwellers, later embraced a bohemian spirit.
The Messara Plain in Crete, Greece, is the largest plain in Crete, featuring fertile land, archaeological sites like Phaistos and Gortyn, and beautiful beaches.
Discover Metochi, Crete, the alleged birthplace of Epimenides, a renowned philosopher and prophet. Explore the village's history, culture, and connection to this enigmatic figure.
Minoan villa at Kalamaki, Crete, near the Sfakoryako stream. Archaeological findings from the 1978 & 1979 surveys suggest a thriving Minoan settlement in the region.
Pitsidia, a historic village near Kommos beach, blends rich history, beautiful beaches, and a thriving local economy focused on tourism and agriculture.
Roman-era burial site in Crete with three chambers, featuring burial niches and a possible sanctuary. Local lore links it to blacksmiths and ghostly apparitions.
Skaniari Lakkos, a Minoan cemetery complex in Crete's Asterousia Mountains, features tholos tombs & rectangular buildings spanning the Final Neolithic to Middle Minoan IB periods.
The Agriolidis Tower in Crete: A symbol of Ottoman oppression and Cretan resistance. Learn about the notorious Agriolidis and the tower's role in the struggle for independence.
The Tholos Tomb of Kamilari, located on a coastal hill near Phaistos in Crete, is the largest and most well-preserved Minoan tholos tomb. Constructed around 1900 BC, it offers valuable insights into Minoan funerary practices. The tomb's proximity to Agia Triada and Phaistos suggests a connection to the elites of these settlements. The Kamilari cemetery includes three tholos tombs, with Tholos A being the most preserved, featuring a circular chamber, external rooms, and an open-air courtyard. Tholos B and C are partially preserved, with Tholos C repurposed as a shrine dedicated to Demeter and Kore. A research project is underway to study the cemetery, including its stratigraphy, artifacts, and human remains. The project aims to understand the changing mortuary behavior and social choices of the communities who used the cemetery over centuries.