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.

Venetian-era monastery destroyed in 1821. Its history intertwines with Crete's religious traditions and fight for Greek independence.

The Church of Saint Paul, a 13th-century Byzantine church near Kamilari, Crete, features a large narthex and frescoes.

Minoan settlement in Crete featuring a Royal Villa, workshops, and burial sites. Artifacts include the Hagia Triada sarcophagus and the Chieftain’s Cup.

Agiofarago Gorge in Crete offers a stunning hike with steep cliffs and caves. The beach boasts fine pebbles and clear blue water.

Agios Ioannis, a historic village in Crete's Messara Plain, is near the Minoan palace of Phaistos. First mentioned in 1577, it's the birthplace of New Martyr John (Arnautogiannis), martyred in 1845. The village features the Church of Saint Paul and an early Christian baptistery, along with the ruined Aghios Georgios Falandras Monastery. Its history includes Venetian and Ottoman rule, and it's now part of the Phaistos municipality. The local economy is based on tourism and olive cultivation.

The Monastery of Agios Nikolaos Zaros is a historic monastery in Crete with 14th-century frescoes and an interesting history.

Alithini is a village in Crete's Messara plain, known for olive and cereal cultivation. Located near Moires at 150 meters altitude, its history is tied to the plain's agricultural past, potentially dating back to Minoan times. The village church, dedicated to the Dormition of the Theotokos, is a focal point. Population data shows fluctuations, with around 150 residents currently. Alithini maintains its traditional Cretan village character while adapting to modern life.

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.

Castel Nuovo, a 1206 Genoese fortress, stands in ruins on Psilo Kasteli, near Phaistos, Crete. Constructed by Enrico Pescatore, its strategic hill location offered views of Messara. Built on the ancient Aina site, it played a role in Cretan revolts against Venetian rule, including the Two Syvritos (1230-1236) and Kallergis (1363-1367) revolts. The fortress, also briefly reoccupied during the Cretan War (1645-1669), is the namesake of Kainourgiou province. Today, wall and cistern remnants mark the historical landmark, offering insights into Venetian-era Crete.

Chrysostomos Beach, Crete, is a tranquil escape with coarse sand, clear waters, and historical remnants of the ancient city of Lasaia.

Faneromeni is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Phaistos

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.

Galia, a historic village in Crete's Messara plain, dates to the Venetian era (1577). Its name derives from the Greek word for milk, possibly linked to its first church. The village experienced population shifts during Ottoman rule, notably the 1834 Egyptian census when no Christians were recorded. Galia later repopulated, growing after 1920 with residents from Vorizia. Its peak population reached 1029 in 1961, declining to 916 by 2011. Today, Galia thrives on agriculture (olives, vegetables, livestock, beekeeping) and hospitality. Located 5km northwest of Moires and 57.3km from Heraklion, it offers amenities like schools, churches (Agios Georgios), and attracts tourists seeking authentic Cretan experiences near archaeological sites and the Ida mountains.

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.

Kalamaki Beach, located on Crete's south coast near Kamilari, is a long stretch of golden sand facing Messara Gulf and Paximadia islets. Known for its relaxed atmosphere, the beach offers both organized areas with sunbeds and umbrellas, and secluded natural spots. However, the seabed composition can create strong winds, waves, and currents, requiring caution for young children and weak swimmers. While Kalamaki caters to various preferences, the southeast end transitions into the naturist-friendly Kommos Beach.

Relax on the longest beach in south Crete. Modern seaside resort catering to families and young people, near archaeological sites.

Kalochorafitis, a village in Crete's Phaistos Municipality, is known for its historic significance. First mentioned in 1399, the village features the well-preserved 15th-century chapel of Agios Georgios o Methystis, adorned with frescoes. Located 64 kilometers from Heraklion, it was mentioned by Barozzi in 1577 and Castrofilaca in 1583 as Caloghorafici/Caloghorafiti. The name derives from "good field," referencing the area's first settler. The village's population has fluctuated over time, from 108 in 1583 to around 115 today.

Kaloi Limenes, in Heraklion, Crete, is a coastal settlement with a natural harbor. The area is known for its rugged beauty and proximity to Lentas and the ancient city of Lasaia. A small islet named "Apostolos Pavlos" is located in the harbor and a nearby church is dedicated to Apostle Paul. The name Kaloi Limenes appears in the Acts of the Apostles and is associated with Apostle Paul's journey. During the Venetian era, it was known for smuggling activities.

Kamares, a village nestled in the foothills of Mount Ida, Crete, is historically significant due to its proximity to the Kamares Cave. This cave was a vital Minoan religious center, renowned for the discovery of Kamares Ware pottery, dating back to 2000 BC. The village, at an elevation of 600 meters, offers scenic views and a rich history, attracting tourists interested in Minoan civilization and the nearby Ideon Antro Cave. Its population, around 331 in 2011, engages in agriculture, livestock farming and tourism-related activities. Kamares blends its historical past with modern life, offering visitors a glimpse into Cretan heritage.

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.

Kissoi is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Phaistos

Kommos archaeological site on Crete's southern coast reveals a Minoan port town central to trade and maritime activities.

Kommos Beach, Crete: Sheltered golden sands, calm waters, and ancient Minoan ruins. A haven for families and those seeking tranquility.

The Koules of Grammeni, also known as the Koules of Grigoria or Magarikari, is an Ottoman fortress in Crete, Greece. Built in the late 19th century during the Great Cretan Revolution (1866-1869), it was strategically positioned between the villages of Grigoria and Magarikari overlooking the Messara Plain. Measuring 25 meters by 11 meters, with 24 embrasures, it was used as a stronghold by the Ottomans to maintain control over the rebellious Cretan population. In May 1944, it provided refuge to the villagers of Magarikari during the German occupation. Today, the Koules of Grammeni stands as a well-preserved reminder of Crete's turbulent past and the island's enduring spirit.

Kouses, located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece, is a village with a rich history. The village sits on the northern foothills of Mount Pyrgos, offering a panoramic view of the Kato Messara plain. Kouses is located about 61 kilometers from Heraklion and is close to Phaistos. The village was once a fiefdom of the Kourmoulis family during the Ottoman occupation. The Kourmoulis family were Crypto-Christians who secretly practiced Christianity. According to local tradition, a clandestine school operated in Kouses. Two towers belonging to the Kourmoulis family still stand in Kouses. Within one of these towers lies the church of Agia Pelagia, where Crypto-Christians would gather in secret to worship. Other churches in the village include those dedicated to Agios Antonios, Agioi Pantes, and Agios Georgios. Additionally, there is the church of the Dormition of Agia Anna.

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.

Listaros, a small village nestled in the Asterousia Mountains of southern Crete, boasts a rich history dating back to the 16th century. First mentioned in historical records from 1577, the village was designated as "Vakoufiko" during the Ottoman period, with its income supporting religious institutions and charitable works. Archaeological surveys in the 1980s revealed the village's strategic location near a spring, surrounded by fertile fields and diverse vegetation. Ethnographic research highlighted the importance of agriculture, grazing, and burning in shaping the landscape, as well as the significance of community ties and human-land interactions. Despite challenges posed by red soils requiring consistent irrigation, Listaros and its inhabitants have thrived for centuries, showcasing the resilience and adaptability of human communities in mountainous environments.

Lithino Cape, the southernmost point of Crete, features a rugged landscape with cliffs and remnants of WWII German fortifications. The cape's strategic location, offering a commanding view of the southern coastline, led the Germans to construct these fortifications to defend against potential invasion. Mount Kefali, situated on the cape, rises to an elevation of 388 meters and offers stunning views of the coastline, Gavdos, and the Asterousia Mountains. Atop Kefali Peak stands the small stone church of Timios Stavros, a testament to the site's enduring importance as a place of worship and refuge. The ruins of pillboxes built by the Germans during the Second World War are a stark reminder of the cape’s strategic value.

Makres, a small village in Crete, nestled at the foot of Mount Psiloritis, has a rich history dating back to at least 1671, as evidenced by Turkish census records. Its history is intertwined with the Community of Moroni, which it belongs to along with Moroni, Panagia, and Fari. Makres, with an altitude of 490 meters, is located 3 kilometers north of Moroni and falls under the administrative purview of the Municipality of Phaistos. The village's economy is primarily based on the cultivation of olive trees for olive oil production and the drying of raisins. The population of Makres has fluctuated over the years, reflecting the trends of rural Crete. Historical records, including mentions in the Code of Sacrifices (1821), Pashley's accounts (1834), and Stavraki's records (1881), provide insights into the village's past. The village is home to two churches, the Church of the Annunciation and the Church of Saint John. Makres played a role in the Cretan revolution of 1821. The village's population was 126 in 2011 and 134 in 2021.

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.

Matala is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Phaistos

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.

The Odigitria Cemetery in Crete's Asterousia mountains is an archaeological site dating back to the Early Minoan (EM) period. It features two tholos tombs (A and B), a Rectangular Building, courtyards, an ossuary, and a possible altar, all enclosed within a peribolos wall. The site's three construction phases span from the Final Neolithic to the Middle Minoan (MM) era. Tholos A, the smaller of the two tombs, contained undisturbed EM I pottery, while Tholos B boasts a unique complete outer wall. The Rectangular Building may have served as an independent burial building or ritual space. The courtyards, particularly the Eastern and Outer Courtyards, likely hosted rituals associated with the deceased. The ossuary reveals the practice of secondary burial, where bodies were initially interred in the tholos tombs or pithoi and later transferred to the ossuary. The Odigitria Cemetery provides significant insights into Early and Middle Minoan burial practices, social structures, and material culture.

Minoan villa at Kalamaki, Crete, near the Sfakoryako stream. Archaeological findings from the 1978 & 1979 surveys suggest a thriving Minoan settlement in the region.

Moires is a modern town located in the fertile Messara plain of Crete, approximately 38 kilometers southwest of Heraklion. The town has a rich history, potentially dating back to the Venetian era, and has experienced significant growth over the centuries. Moires is a bustling hub of activity, known for its agricultural production, particularly olive oil and wine, and its vibrant Saturday market, the largest in Crete. The town also serves as an administrative center and offers a range of amenities, including schools, banks, and a health center. Its strategic location provides easy access to key attractions such as the Minoan palaces of Phaistos and Agia Triada, the Roman ruins of Gortyna, and the coastal areas of Matala.

Moni Odigitrias, a 14th-century Greek Orthodox monastery nestled in the Asterousia Mountains of Crete, stands as a testament to the island's rich history and resilience. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary "Odigitria" ("She who shows the way"), the monastery has been a place of pilgrimage and refuge for centuries. During the Venetian period, Moni Odigitrias flourished as a center of learning and art. Its walls are adorned with frescoes by renowned Cretan painters, including Angelos Akotantos, who also crafted the monastery's iconic iconostasis. The monastery's collection of valuable icons and manuscripts further reflects its cultural significance. Moni Odigitrias played a pivotal role in the Cretan resistance against the Ottoman Empire. It served as a sanctuary for rebels and a symbol of defiance. The legendary "Xopapas" (Father Ioasaph), a monk turned rebel leader, led the resistance from within the monastery's walls. Today, Moni Odigitrias remains a working monastery, home to a small community of monks. It has undergone extensive restoration and welcomes visitors to explore its historic grounds, including a museum showcasing artifacts from its past. The museum houses a traditional loom, a stone oven, an olive press, and agricultural tools, providing a glimpse into the monastery's self-sufficient lifestyle.

Ancient olive tree near Moroni, Crete, designated "Monumental" with unique trunk and historical significance.

Moroni is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Phaistos

Former monastery north of Voroi, Crete. Features a double-aisled church with late 14th-century frescoes. Generally closed to the public.

Panagia ton Angelon, a 15th-century Catholic church in Fradio, Crete. Gothic influences and monastery ruins mark this historic site.

Petrokefali, a village in the Municipality of Phaistos, Crete, has a long history, dating back to Venetian censuses where it was recorded as Petrochieffali. The village is located at the 59.3rd kilometer of the road to Matala. In 2021, its population was 813. The inhabitants are mainly engaged in agriculture, particularly olive growing and the cultivation of citrus fruits and early vegetables. Historically, the area was also known for rice cultivation. Petrokefali has a Cultural Association of Ladies, an Adult Education Center, a kindergarten, and a primary school. The village is also known for its connection to the Cretan Revolution against the Ottomans, particularly through figures like Michael Kourmoulis and Xopateras. The abandoned village of Flambanochori, located south of Petrokefali, is believed to have been deserted due to the devastating plague of 1592.

Minoan villa ruins near Pitsidia, Crete, dating back to 1700-1450 BC. Insights into Minoan daily life, architecture, and earthquake response.

Pitsidia, a historic village near Kommos beach, blends rich history, beautiful beaches, and a thriving local economy focused on tourism and agriculture.

Plouti is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Phaistos

Pompia is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Phaistos

Roufas, a village in Heraklion, Crete, has a history dating back to the Venetian era, evidenced by censuses from 1583 recording 424 inhabitants. During Ottoman rule, the village was inhabited solely by Turks. Today, Roufas is a smaller settlement with a population of 71 (2021), serving as the seat of the Roufas community within Phaistos municipality. The village features the main church of Saint Basil and several smaller churches dedicated to various saints. Plouti, a smaller settlement nearby, is also part of the Roufas community. Plouti's population was 48 in 2011. Historical records show Plouti had 146 inhabitants during the Venetian period.

Siderospilia, meaning "Iron Caves," is a complex of three interconnected chambers carved into limestone bedrock near Roufas, Crete. Its purpose is debated, with theories ranging from blacksmith workshop to Roman-era burial site. Chamber 1 features a broken supporting column, roof opening, and stone bench. Chamber 2 is larger, with niches for burials. Chamber 3 resembles an early Christian church, with a dividing wall and door. Local legends link the cave to blacksmiths, ghosts, and eerie sounds. Some believe it was a dwelling before becoming a necropolis. The cave's location near a stream and possible ancient structures adds to its significance. Siderospilia is accessible but lacks official signage.

Sivas is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Phaistos

Skaniari Lakkos, a Minoan cemetery complex located in the Asterousia Mountains of southern Crete, provides valuable insights into Minoan burial practices and social organization during the Bronze Age. It features five distinct burial structures, including two tholos tombs and three rectangular buildings, each containing multiple chambers and showcasing a variety of architectural styles. These structures date back to the Final Neolithic period (c. 3500 BC) to the Middle Minoan IB period (c. 1900 BC). Excavations at Skaniari Lakkos have yielded a wealth of artifacts, including pottery vessels, stone tools, jewelry, and seals, providing information about Minoan material culture, artistic expression, and trade networks. The presence of imported goods suggests connections with other regions in the Aegean and beyond. The site's remote location and the monumental nature of the burial structures underscore the importance of death and the afterlife in Minoan society. Skaniari Lakkos is part of a broader network of Minoan settlements and burial sites in the Asterousia region, including Trypiti, Doukiania, and the tholos tombs of Kefali and Moni Odigitria.

Apolycnos, a now deserted village near Moires in southern Crete, offers a glimpse into traditional Cretan life. Mentioned as Apolchino in 1248, the village's population dwindled throughout the 20th century due to urbanization. Despite abandonment, the village's stone buildings and the church of Saint Panteleimon remain, reflecting its history from the Byzantine era through Venetian rule and later periods. The surrounding landscape includes a small gorge. Population records from 1583 to 2021 document the village's decline.

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.

Monastery of Panagia Kalyviani: A spiritual and charitable center in Crete, known for its social work and Byzantine architecture.

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.

Tympaki, also known as Tympakion, is a town in Crete, Greece, with a rich history dating back before its official recognition in 1925. Located in the Messara plain, 65 km southwest of Heraklion, Tympaki is known for its agricultural production (olives, fruits, vegetables) and proximity to beaches like Matala. The town was destroyed during WWII and later rebuilt, influencing its architecture. Its history includes a strategic airfield used during the war, now hosting motorsports events. Nearby are the archaeological sites of Phaistos and Agia Triada. The population has grown significantly since 1900, reaching approximately 5,000 today.

Explore the historic Varsamonero Monastery in Crete, known for its well-preserved 14th-15th century frescoes and connection to Saint Phanourios.

Vathy Beach, a secluded haven on Crete's southern coast, is located 79 kilometers southwest of Heraklion and 17 kilometers south of Sivas, near Cape Lithino. The beach, nestled at the end of a gorge carved by the Vathy stream, is surrounded by towering cliffs that create a lagoon-like setting. Historically, it was a pirate hideaway and a hermitage for monks from the Odigitria Monastery. The surrounding cliffs feature natural alcoves and shelters built by locals from Gergeri village who brought their flocks here to overwinter. The beach is generally calm, except during westerly winds, and has a sandy seabed with some rocks. It offers a tranquil escape, with few tamarisk trees for shade and no amenities. To reach Vathy, drive from Sivas to the Odigitria Monastery, turn right onto a dirt road heading west, and continue for about 10 kilometers. Despite its remote location, the beach can get crowded in August.

Vorizia is a settlement located in the Heraklion regional unit on the island of Crete, Greece. It belongs to the Municipality of Phaistos

Voroi, a historic Cretan village in the Messara Plain, boasts a history dating back to the Early Minoan era. Near ancient Phaistos, Voroi's name may derive from King Radamanthys' grandson. It served as the Pyrgiotissa province capital during Venetian and Ottoman rule and played a role in Cretan uprisings. Today, Voroi thrives with agriculture, including olives and vineyards, and cultural tourism. The Museum of Cretan Ethnology and preserved traditional architecture are highlights. Population data shows consistent presence through the centuries, from 312 residents in 1583 to 729 in 2021.

Votomos Lake, or Zaros Lake, is a man-made water body in Crete's Psiloritis southern slopes, established in 1987 from a pre-existing wetland. The area, known for the "Zaros" bottled water, signifies "place of much flowing water." It offers trout and salmon farming, dining, recreation, and serves as a trailhead for the Agios Nikolaos Gorge, leading to the Rouvas forest. The lake's creation reflects water management and recreational development in the region, blending natural spring origins with human-engineered enhancements, and local legends that speak of the origins of the lake.

Moni Vrontisiou, a historic monastery in the Psiloritis Mountains of Crete, dates back to the 9th century. Dedicated to Saint Anthony and the Touching of Thomas, it is known for its architecture and frescoes. The monastery played a role in the Cretan struggle for independence, serving as a refuge for monks and a hub for revolutionary activities. Its fortified walls, two-story main building, and bell tower stand as a testament to its history. The 15th-century marble fountain at the entrance is a highlight, featuring intricate carvings. The main church houses surviving frescoes from the 14th century. Moni Vrontisiou is located 49 kilometers southwest of Heraklion and is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with free admission.

Zaros, a town in Crete's Heraklion region, sits on Mount Samari's slopes. Known for "Zaros" bottled water, it boasts Lake Votomos, a recreational area with trout farms, and the Gorge of Rouvas. The historic Monastery of Vrontisi and Saint Nicholas Church, featuring frescoes, are nearby. Ancient Gortyn sourced water from Zaros' Sterna spring, with Roman aqueduct remnants still visible. The 1583 Kastrofylakas census mentions Zaros. The town's economy is based on agriculture.