We will acquaint you with the history of Crete from Minoan time until today…

Ancient palaces are unique evidence of a great and mysterious Minoan civilization that existed on the island during the period of 2700-1400 BC. Palaces found on the island are without equal.

Palace of Knossos, of course, is a world class historic site, the most unusual and tremendous of Cretan sights. It has strange architecture, indescribable atmosphere of ancient times, beautiful legends and myths. The origins of this amazing structure can be traced back to 1900 BC.

Phaistos Palace is the oldest and second largest of Cretan palaces. The most famous discovery is the so-called clay Phaistos disk with letters which have not been deciphered to this day.

Medieval fortresses

They belong to the Venetian era. Spinalonga island fortress of tears has gained worldwide fame thanks to the suddenly revealed tragic events.

Gramvousa is a famous island of the pirates, which was visited by legendary Barbarossa in person. Exactly at this island, Odysseus stopped on his way to Ithaca.

Ancient city of Gortyna

The history of the Gortyna city dates back several thousand years. It was a huge city, famous for unprecedented wealth, a high level of civilization and education. In terms of importance Gorthyna is ranked in one row with Knossos, Ierapetra, Kydonia and Lyctus. The city minted its own coins and was described by Homer as a «strong walled». It was here that the first church was built in Crete. A legal codе of the V century BC, carved on stone, is one of the most famous discoveries in Gorthyna.

July, 2016