For a significant part of the Russians who vacationed in Greece, this country is associated with one name - the island of Crete. A large island, lying far from the continent, has become very close to tourists from all over the world.

This happened thanks to the developed and understandable infrastructure of the island, fascinating history, a huge number of legendary ancient monuments, hotels for every taste and budget, as well as two international airports and several sea harbors.

Of course, everyone has their own Crete, but you can still tell a few general facts about it.

A bit of history

Crete has played a big role in world history, because the first European civilization originated here. About 7 thousand years BC, the first people settled on the island, and after five thousand years four kingdoms were formed here at once, their capitals were in the cities of Knossos, Kato-Zakro, Fest and Malia. These states laid the foundation for the Minoan (Crete-Mycenaean) civilization, while only a few wild tribes lived on mainland Europe.

The Minoan culture lived for a whole thousand years, but then faced two irreparable troubles: a huge tsunami that hit the island as a result of an earthquake near the island of Santorini, and wild northern tribes devastating and burning Cretan cities. As a result, the Minoan civilization perished, the island became empty and for many centuries became a transit point for pirates and robbers.

Then its history coincided with the history of most of the islands of Greece: Crete was conquered by the Romans, then went to Byzantium, thanks to which it was built up with beautiful temples.

In 824, the Saracens captured the island and founded an Arab state there with the center in the city of Handak (now it is the capital of Crete - Heraklion), it lasted almost 150 years.

After that, the island came under the rule of the Venetians for almost 400 years, which contributed to the development of all kinds of arts and crafts here. In 1669, the Turks captured it, although Crete fiercely resisted, the capital was under siege for 21 years. The power of the Ottoman Empire lasted, with a short break, almost until the beginning of the twentieth century. Crete joined Greece only in 1913.
However, the mythical history of the island is even more interesting, because it was here in the cave that the future thunder god Zeus was sheltered as a baby from his father Kron, thanks to which he survived and became the main one on Olympus. He also brought here the stolen virgin Europe, who bore him three sons, Rhadamanthus, Sarpedon and Minos. Here, according to legend, the Labyrinth of the Minotaur was erected, where Theseus killed a terrible monster. In general, many significant myths of Ancient Greece are associated with Crete, which makes it even more interesting to rest in modern Crete.

Where is the island of Crete

We can say that this piece of land is located at the intersection of three civilizations - Europe, Asia and Africa. If you look at the map, it seems that the European continent ends with this island. Crete is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean and the largest island of Hellas: its area is just under 8500 sq. km. The length of Crete is 260 km, the width is from 60 km at the widest point to 12 at the narrowest point on the isthmus of Ierapetra. From the north it is washed by the Cretan Sea, from the south by the Libyan Sea and in the west by the Ionian Sea.

The island is elongated from west to east, and its main resorts are located on the northern coast. Along the same coast runs the New Cretan Highway, which connects the largest cities of the island. There are much fewer tourists in the depths and in the south of Crete, respectively, the settlements are more original and interesting, but getting there is not so easy.

By the way, about the population. There are only about 800 thousand Cretans, but several times more people sail and fly to the island every year as tourists. The local population is, of course, the Greeks, but in fact they are mixed with many bloods of different peoples, whose history is connected with this part of the land between Europe and North Africa.

The nature of Crete is considered beautiful and amazing, but in fact it is a bit monotonous: these are mountains, mostly flat, forests and a couple of small rivers.

But in Crete there are some very beautiful and unusual caves and gorges - both in the depths of the island and in the rocks on popular beaches.

The main thing here is the sun and mild climate. In addition to this, nature has created amazing beaches, some of which are on the list of the best beaches in Greece and even the world.

Crete is divided into 4 administrative districts (nomes): Chania, Rethymnon, Heraklion, Lassithi.

Each of them is famous for its resorts and attractions.

Chania

The most western number of the island and at the same time the greenest. The capital of the district of the same name (150 km from Heraklion) is called the "Greek Venice", as many buildings in the Venetian style have been preserved here. Chania is considered a quiet region, there are fewer tourists here than in other parts of Crete, so it is recommended to spend a quiet family vacation here with children.

Rethymnon

In a small region there are several resort villages, as well as beautiful beaches. There are a lot of tourists in Rethymnon, because both the capital of the district (Rethymno, 78 km from Heraklion) and its surroundings are one big archaeological attraction, it is called the "soul of Crete". In addition, it is on the territory of this province that the two highest mountains of the island are located - Ida or Psiloritis (2456 m) and Kedros (1777 m), which adds incredible beauty to the landscape.

Heraklion

The central region of Crete, with its capital in the city of Heraklion, is the most densely populated, with a developed urban and hotel infrastructure. Mecca of the island's nightlife, shopping and other entertainment. At the same time, the region has a huge number of museums, historical monuments and ancient temples. Near Heraklion are the noisiest youth hotels, whose guests spend evenings in the clubs of the island capital.

Lasithi

The easternmost part of Crete, which boasts the largest number of sunny days per year. The resorts of the region are considered the most respectable; the largest and most expensive hotels of the island are located here. The regional capital, Agios Nikolaos, is 69 km away. from Heraklion, however, the fashionable villages of the province - Ierapetra - are even further away, 81 km and 105 km, respectively. There are few mountains here, the main natural attraction is Lake Voulismeni.

How to get there

Airports

In Crete, a lot of air liners from all over the world are received daily, two international and Chania. During the season, these are mainly charters, but there are also regular flights from several European cities, including from the Russian capital. A Moscow-Crete plane ticket costs about 11.5 thousand rubles. (Lassithi County) receives mostly local and private flights. From the Greek capital, you can fly to Crete for an amount of 65 to 100 euros per person.

Ferries

Regular ferry service for Greece is like Russian intercity buses. Ferries are very reliable, comfortable and economical. In Crete, all major cities are ports, but the largest - Heraklion and Chania - receive the largest number of ships. From Athens, high-speed ships go to the island either at lunchtime and arrive at their destination in the evening, or depart at night and moor in Crete in the early morning. Most ferries call at several ports in Crete in one trip. He also has a connection with other Greek islands, so you can come here for a couple of days while on vacation in another island province of Hellas. Here is information on several ferries.

Ferry Athens (Piraeus) - Heraklion: departure at 21.00, arrival at 6 am with a call at the ports of Chania, Agios Nikolaos. Ticket price - from 29 to 36 euros per person. The ship offers its guests comfortable cabins and the possibility of transporting cars.

Ferry Piraeus - Kissamos (Chania area): departure at 17.00, arrival at 5.30 in the morning, ticket - 24 euros per person.

Ferry Santorini - Heraklion A: travel time 2 hours, cost 55-57 euros. Departs mostly in the evening.

Ferry about. Mykonos(all about Mykonos) – Heraklion: travel time 3.5 hours, ticket price - 76-80 euros per person.

You won’t be able to get to Crete from another island of Rhodes, popular with Russians, or, for example, Zakynthos ( island overview), since ferry service in Greece exists only in the waters of one sea. In this case, you can sail to Crete only with a "transfer" in the Athenian port of Piraeus or other mainland ports.

If you traveled on your own in mainland Greece and decided to visit Crete with your vehicle, then the prices for transporting such equipment by ferry are approximately as follows:

The main road in Crete runs along the northern coast and connects the main resort towns and villages.

This is a good quality multi-lane highway, following which it is easy to get to the main local attractions.

Most of the roads on the south coast or in the interior of the island are narrow, often just country serpentines; in the mountains it can be simply dangerous for an inexperienced driver. Rocky terrain only worsens the condition, so a punctured tire is the most common car breakdown in Crete.

Three facts about transport

A feature of Crete can be called people - cheerful and very responsive, cheerful and carefree, like all southern peoples. Cretans, like all Greeks, are slow and sometimes can be cunning, but the high level of tourism development on the island makes them correspond to the proud title of a world resort, and therefore the level of service in hotels in Crete is noticeably higher than in Greek provinces less popular with tourists.

Crete. General information

Title: Nisos Kriti - the island of Crete.

Crete is the administrative and territorial unit of Greece, as well as the largest of the Greek islands and the southernmost of them, with the exception of the small island of Gavdos.

Description : The length of the island is 260 km, width

(at its widest point) 56 km, area 8260 sq. km.

Population: Approximately 600,000 Greek population 10,665,989 (as of 2003).

Language : Greek.

Religion: Christianity, Greek Orthodox Church.

Currency unit: Since 2001, the currency has been the Euro, replacing the Greek Drachma completely in 2002. The name "euro" is derived from the word "europa", which, in turn, comes from the Greek word "europi".

Cities and administrative centers:

North coast: Heraklion (the capital of the island, 200 thousand inhabitants),

Chania (80 thousand inhabitants), Rethymnon (30 thousand inhabitants),

Agios Nikolaos, Sitia.

South coast: Ierapetra, Mires, Timbaki, Paleochora.

Airports: Crete has 5 airports. But only the airports of Heraklion, Chania and Sitia serve passenger flights. There are military airfields in Kasteli and Timbaki.

Seaports: The 2 main ports are Heraklion and Souda Bay. The ports of Rethymnon, Agios Nikolaos and Sitia are not so significant. Numerous fishing harbors are located on the south coast.

Mountains: Crete is a mountainous island. The mountains had a great influence on the course of historical events and on the formation of the character of local residents. In the west of the island rise Lefka Ori (White Mountains) with the highest point of 2453 meters. There is a mountain in the central part of the island. Go or Psiloritis 2456 meters high. In the east, Mount Dikti rises to a height of 2418 meters. The Cretan mountains stretch across the entire island, making Crete look much larger than its natural size.

Rivers and Lakes: Cretan rivers are short and usually dry up during the summer months. Only the flow of the rivers in Preveli, in the south of Rethymno prefecture, and near Vrises, in Chania prefecture, is not interrupted all year round.

A small picturesque lake Kournas, on the banks of which there are many taverns, is located near the town of Girgopoulis, Chania prefecture. Kournas is the only natural fresh water lake in Crete.

The artificial lake Agia is located in the Kydonia valley. A small lake Voulismeni (although many do not consider it a lake) is in the center of the city of Agios Nikolaos.

Islands: The nearby islands of Chrissi, Koufonisi, Dia, Paximadia, Gramvoussa are uninhabited, but day cruises are organized for tourists. The island of Gavdos is inhabited and is located in the very south of Europe. Santorini (or Thira) is part of the Cyclades archipelago. Regular sea and air connections allow you to visit Santorini and return to Crete within one day.

Economy: Top quality olive oil, first class honey and cheeses, oranges, grapes, various types of vegetables, and a large number of sheep and goats are the basis of agriculture, which, together with tourism, provides the main income for the economy of the island.

History: The history of Crete dates back to the 6th millennium BC, when the island was first inhabited by humans. Minoan civilization, relating to the Bronze Age, is the most famous period of its history. Then palaces were built on the island in Knossos, Phaestos and Zakros and the islands of the Cyclades archipelago were settled.

Unlike the Egyptians, the Minoans were brave sailors. On their ships they traded throughout the Mediterranean. The influence of the cultures of other peoples with whom the Minoans came into contact contributed to the emergence of what we still admire and believe today the first highly developed civilization in Europe.

On the coast and in the mountains: The tourism industry is concentrated on the northern coast, where all the largest cities are located. For those who are looking for a secluded beach - the south coast will be the perfect place. But, unfortunately, every year it becomes more and more difficult to find such beaches where naturism is a common occurrence, because information is spreading faster and faster these days. The south is also suitable for you if you want to practice driving on narrow and very winding roads.

The mountainous areas further from the coast are less known. The roads here are such that you can only drive a jeep, and roadside signs can be useless.

In the villages, almost no one speaks English, and you will not see the familiar signs “Room for Rent” or “Restaurant”. But here you will meet real Cretans - proud and friendly people, with a great sense of humor. They will always help and even offer a glass of raki (local grape moonshine). When you meet, just smile and say “calimera” = “good morning”, “calispera” = “good evening” or “yasas” = “hello”. As a token of gratitude, it is customary to say “efharisto” = “thank you”.

People: The following is a quote from Theocharis Detorakis's book "History of Crete"

(ISBN 960-220-712-4)

::These people are admirable. 40 restless centuries have taught them to show restraint and stubbornness, thanks to which they have retained their language and identity.

Their character miraculously combines courage and independence, often on the verge of complete disobedience, love of adventure, wit and resourcefulness, a tireless desire for freedom and incredible boastfulness. Their speech is relaxed and full of metaphors: A fertile land that has always given birth to the most worthy figures of the state and church, science and culture, army and economy.

The most popular Greek island among tourists.

For lovers of history, it is interesting for its centuries-old heritage: ancient cities, Venetian monuments, and rich museums.

Beach lovers find here hundreds of spacious beaches and secluded coves. And supporters of outdoor activities explore the mountains and gorges of Crete. On the island, like nowhere else, traditional customs and modern infrastructure coexist better.

History of Crete

Historians attributed the first appearance of man on Crete to the Neolithic era. It was then that the first settlements were formed on the island. First of all, the Cretan civilization was maritime - waterways and access to the nearest regions made it highly developed and independent. The islanders had their own script, but their language and ethnicity have not yet been established.

The Bronze Age was the time of the prosperity of the Minoan civilization. The development of culture was facilitated by the palaces that became the center of the island: Zakros, Knossos and Festus. The Minoan kings had a powerful fleet at their disposal. Together with the favorable location of Crete, it allowed the island to control all trade in the Mediterranean.

Such a way of life came into decline unexpectedly - as a result of an earthquake in Santorini, a powerful wave brought to the shores of Crete. She destroyed several cities and palaces in an instant. But the island prospered for some time, and its inhabitants took part in the wars.

In Antiquity, Crete was the center of Mediterranean trade. But then he was attacked by the Dorians, who formed city-states arranged according to the Greek type. Constant clashes and attacks by external aggressors weakened the island. And the Romans had a good opportunity to conquer it. Until 330, they ruled Crete, and the city of Gortyn served as the capital.

During the reign of the Romans, the Greek language, inherited from the Dorians, did not disappear from everyday life. At the same time, the first Christian communities appeared.

In ancient times, myths were born, the events of which developed in Crete. According to legend, it was on this island that Zeus was born and later brought here the stolen Europa. And here there was a labyrinth of King Minos, in which the Minotaur lived.

Since 330 - one of the Byzantine provinces. Until 824, basilicas were actively built on the island and Christianity was established, the development of which was accompanied by the general prosperity of Crete. But then the Saracens come, who built a powerful fortress on the site of modern Heraklion. For the inhabitants of the island, the era of persecution and deprivation has come. Arab invaders appropriated the treasures of the island and were engaged in the slave trade.

Finally, a powerful Byzantine army landed on the shores of Crete, and after the liberation, the Greek presence here is strengthened by settlers. The period of Byzantine domination was interrupted in 1210, when the Venetians established dominance on the island. Crete was settled by soldiers and the nobility, the architecture began to change. And now the Venetian monuments, monasteries, squares and old towns are well preserved on the island.

In the 17th century, the Turks made several attempts to take possession of the island. As a result, they settled in Crete for a long time (until the end of the 19th century), and this period became one of the bloodiest in history for the locals. Periodically, the Cretans raised uprisings, and only by 1896 did the rebel army manage to liberate several provinces. Crete was declared an independent autonomy.

In 1908, with the help of world powers, reunification with Greece was proclaimed. But only by 1913, after the withdrawal of foreign troops, the Balkan wars and the signing of the treaty, Crete finally became Greek.

The 20th century still did not become less stressful for the island. In World War II, Crete was the scene of confrontation between the anti-Hitler countries and the German-Italian occupiers. Only in 1945 did peaceful life begin on the island, which, however, did not last long. From 1946 to 1949, a civil war raged in Greece...

Geography of Crete

Crete is the largest of the Greek islands. Its area exceeds 8300 km, and the length of the coastline is 1050 km. The island is located in the south of the Aegean Sea, 300 km from the coast of Africa.

Most of Crete is characterized by a mountainous terrain, formed by three large mountain systems: Lefka Ori, Psiloritis and the Dikteian mountains. The island has many fertile plateaus and valleys, which allow the cultivation of grapes, fruits and vegetables all year round.

The nature of the island is rich in endemic plants. The most famous is dictamos, which is not found anywhere else.

The sea has always played a special role in the development of Crete. More precisely, several seas. There are differences of opinion about how many seas actually wash Crete. First of all, its shores are washed by the Mediterranean Sea, which is divided into water areas. It turns out that in the north of the island you can swim in the Aegean and Cretan seas, in the west - in the Ionian. In the south - in the Libyan, and in the east - in the Carpathian. The last two names are rarely used: the first has fallen into disuse and is found only on ancient maps, and the second can often be heard from local residents.

Administrative divisions of Crete

Crete is divided into prefectures, or nomes. There are four in total:

Heraklion is the first area visited by newly arrived tourists. It is here that the capital of Crete of the same name is located and a large international airport is located. The city of Heraklion does not captivate tourists with its beauty. In wartime, it was badly damaged, although it retained several valuable monuments from different eras.

The area of ​​Heraklion is replete with archaeological finds - almost all the main palaces of the Minoan era are located here. This prefecture differs from the rest by the highest population density.

Even Zeus ordered to rest on this beautiful island - Crete! Crete is undoubtedly a legendary, fabulous island, history and myths are intertwined here. The reality is that the island of Crete has an excellent climate and excellent conditions for tourists to relax.

The first tourist can be considered Zeus himself, who turned into a bull and stole beautiful Europe. After the abduction, Zeus brought Europe to the island of Crete and was not mistaken: the princess was picky, but she was also struck by the extraordinary beauty of the island. As a result, Europe flared up to the formidable Zeus with a reciprocal passion.

There is no industry on the island of Crete, except for a tiny factory that processes fruits. Comfortable hotels of the island filled the entire sea coast in Crete. Local residents have the opportunity to enjoy the clear sea and the cleanest air of Crete all year round. The area of ​​the island is relatively small - only three hundred kilometers in length and much less in width, while the island of Crete is washed by the waters of four seas at once: the Cretan, Libyan and Ionian. Each of these seas has its own legends.

Russian tourists are accustomed, of course, to large scale. And yet, Crete is the largest island and has an ancient and colorful history. Perhaps, before visiting the island of Crete, it would be nice to read the myths of Ancient Hellas again and remember Helios, the god of the Sun, Hermes, who patronized trade, Aphrodite, the beautiful goddess of love. Aphrodite had her own messenger, the playful, but sometimes very cruel boy Eros. He laughed out loud when he hit the target, and his eyes shone with triumph and joy. It can be fully assumed that the journey of tourists around Crete is often accompanied by the laughter of the messenger of Aphrodite on the island, since the whole atmosphere of the island exudes bliss and languor.

On the island of Crete, there are absolutely no traces of any hard work, as if everything grows by itself: bananas, tomatoes, cucumbers, here under the dazzling sun there are groves of olive, orange, lemon trees.

The Minoan civilization once developed here, and on the island of Crete it was one of the oldest human civilizations. Once upon a time, it was on the island of Crete that the origin of Greek religion, culture and history took place. The death of the Minoan civilization is associated with a terrible volcanic eruption, the memory of which has been preserved only in ancient legends. At the beginning of the 20th century, Arthur Evans, an archaeologist who excavated at Knossos, found evidence of the existence of this great culture on the island of Crete.

On the island of Crete, of course, during the summer heat, the sea beach becomes the best place. But, having arrived here, tourists will definitely want to go on some excursions to see the legendary sights of Crete.

The palace of Knossos is striking in its grandeur. It was built four thousand years ago and had so many rooms that the name "Labyrinth" became a household word thanks to this particular palace. Here, according to legend, the great hero Theseus slew the monstrous Minotaur. In addition to Knossos, on the island of Crete, ancient Phaistos deserves attention, where an impressive palace rises on a mountain, the history of which is associated with many legends.

Each city of the island of Crete is unique in its own way, on the island, in addition, there are several ancient fortresses and monasteries that are currently operating. Those tourists who are less interested in historical monuments will not be bored on the island of Crete either.

Those who like to tickle their nerves can walk on the island of Crete along the longest gorge in Europe, eighteen kilometers the length of this entire path. Samaria is located in the southeast of Crete, it takes at least eight hours to walk along the local gorge. It is worth stocking up on comfortable shoes. Overhanging steep cliffs can rise to a height of more than 600 meters, and at a place called the "Gate" the gorge narrows to three meters! Throughout the journey, tourists are waiting for amazing landscapes and rare plants. At the end of the path, the gorge leads to the south of the island, the road descends to the village of Agia Roumeli.

A rare tourist will refuse to make a sea cruise to the island of Santorini during their stay on the island of Crete. On a comfortable boat, you can get to the volcanic island in four hours, covered with the famous black sand off the coast. Unforgettable snow-white houses of the island of Santorini, located right on the rocks.

Those who swim in the sea face the only danger on the island of Crete - sea urchins. They spend most of their time attached to rocks and completely untouched. But sometimes the current carries them to the sand, then, due to inattention, there is a danger of stepping on a sea urchin. Maybe that's why the Germans and the Dutch are so fond of saltwater pools instead of a real beach? The sea urchin lives only in very clean water and therefore serves as a kind of quality mark!

The beaches of Crete are varied. Wide sandy beaches near the village of Elounda and the town of Agios Nikolaos, pebbly or rocky many other places. Not far from a place called Vai in the east of Crete, there is a unique beach with numerous palm trees.

The northern and southern parts of Crete are very different from each other. In the north of the island of Crete, the capital of the island of Heraklion and the picturesque city of Rethymno are located, here is medieval Chania and all the main resort places. The climate of the northern part of the island is milder, nature is more abundant here, but there are also more vacationers.

The southern part of Crete, facing Africa, is more severe. Here, once in the sixties, hippies liked to visit. The city of Ierapetra was for some time one of the most visited by young people in Europe. The south of Crete also provides all the opportunities for a good holiday. Excellent beaches and a lot of attractions, among which on the island of Crete one can note the fortress located here in Frangokastello, dating back to the Middle Ages. During the predominance of the Venetians on the island of Crete, many different fortresses were built, now cozy Greek restaurants, coffee houses and taverns are located next to them.

Tourists on the island of Crete will be able to taste lobster dishes that were still swimming in the sea in the morning, while experts here can even give their recommendations on cooking, the chef will definitely take them into account. But still it is worth trusting, rather, local experienced chefs. For the ladies who watch their figure, it is worth noting that the portions here are simply huge ... But these dishes are also dangerous because they are incredibly tasty ...

Even if you are tired and dream only about or about the pool, consider at least a couple of traditional excursions on the island of Crete. One of them is the water park, which is very popular among tourists. And if you are in a romantic mood, visit the Lassithi plateau, numerous windmills of a very exotic look would probably make Don Quixote who arrived here work hard ...

On the island of Crete, the youth of nature and the antiquity of history are unusually and harmoniously intertwined. Tourists on the island of Crete are waiting for a leisurely vacation among the beauties of nature, while the tourism infrastructure is quite well developed. The island of Crete has an attractive and magical.

Vacationers here will not be bored. Evenings are held in hotels on weekends, and often every day: barbecue, fish evening, concert of a local folk group or pianist, lottery, disco ... Even those who do not go outside the hotel for several days do not get bored here. Tourists come from all over the world. Many tourists from England, a lot of Germans. Tourists on the island of Crete from Russia are very welcome here! Many people on the island of Crete come every year with the whole family to swim in the cleanest sea, breathe incredibly clean air, dropping the burden of constant worries. Tourists can rent a car, independently travel to different places, even more feeling the immediate atmosphere of the island of Crete. So, perhaps you will someday walk through the mountains on the island of Crete, visit the beaches and sit here in some cozy tavern.

Much has already been said about Crete in guidebooks. Mentioning the name of this island, it is certainly associated with the ancient Minoan civilization, the best Greek olives and wines, legendary architectural monuments and beach resorts known far beyond the borders of Greece. But the best way to be convinced of the endless tourist opportunities of Crete is to see it with your own eyes.

Article navigation

Geography of Crete and how to get to it

Crete- the southernmost and largest island of Greece, surrounded by the Libyan, Ionian and Cretan seas. Its landscapes are predominantly mountainous, but are replaced by fertile valleys, orange and olive groves. The mountains of Crete are riddled with numerous caves, which in ancient times were places of worship. Administratively, Crete is divided into nomes. Chania, Heraklion, Lasithi And Rethymnon.

Get to Crete during the high season it will not be difficult - from May to October the island is connected by direct air communication with many cities of Russia and the world. Tourists are accepted mainly international. Sometimes they launch charters to Chania. In the low season, you will have to fly with a transfer in Athens. The island is also connected by ferry service to the port of Piraeus and the Greek islands.

History of Crete

It is known that people lived in Crete as early as the Neolithic period. By the II millennium BC. 4 kingdoms were formed on the island with centers in Zakros, Knossos, Malia and Phaistos. The main population of Crete was the Kydons, the Minoans, as well as the Phoenicians and Pelasgians. By the 1st millennium BC. Dorians appeared on the island, forming dozens of policies here. The further history of Crete is a series of conquests, during which the island passed from one invader to another. Muslims and Catholics ruled on its territory at different times, Crete was under the control of the Venetians and the Ottoman Empire for several centuries. Finally, in 1913, he was reunited with Greece, becoming the country's largest and southernmost island. The whole history of Crete is closely intertwined with mythology. According to legend, Zeus was born here, the Minotaur lived here, King Minos ruled and the brave Theseus performed feats.

Climate and swimming season in Crete

On the island, as well as throughout Greece, reigns mediterranean climate. The season in Crete is longer than in the northern regions. You can swim from May to October. The hottest months on the island are July-August, when the air warms up to +37 C°, the sea - up to +27 C°. Those who do not like the heat should plan their vacation for June or September. During these months, the air is warmed up to +29 С°, water - up to +25 С°.

Resorts of Crete

Each of the regions of Crete has an administrative center and a whole scattering of resorts. The center of the island is Heraklion - a city with a developed infrastructure, a large aquarium and water parks. Among the popular resort villages: Amoudara, Kokkini Hani, Agia Pelagia, Hersonissos, Stalida, Gouves, Malia. Lassithi is an area that attracts with its natural beauty. It includes the resorts of Elounda and Agios Nikolaos.

The Rethymno region is the leader in terms of the number of tourists. Tourists love the picturesque Rethymno with its Venetian streets and an abundance of attractions. This nome includes the popular resorts of Bali, Panormo, Adele, Platanias. The region of Chania attracts no less. On its territory there are the brightest sights and beaches of Crete. This nome includes the resorts of Agia Marina, Georgioupolis, Stalos, Kalyves, Paleochora, Agia Roumeli.

What to visit in Crete

Crete deservedly enjoys the love of tourists from all over the world. And one of the reasons is the abundance of attractions, visiting which will allow you to get to know the culture of Greece as much as possible. Each of the nomes of the island boasts interesting places to visit:

• Heraklion. Here is the famous - a giant castle, consisting of labyrinths of rooms and passages. This archaeological site has been partially restored. The main finds of the Minoan era found at Knossos are today exhibited in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion. Not far from the capital of the island lie the ruins of Phaistos, one of the largest aquariums in Europe and the picturesque lake Zaros. In Heraklion itself, it is worth seeing the Venetian Loggia, the Cathedral of St. Titus, the Kules Fortress and the Morosini Fountain on Lions Square;
• Lasithi. This area is primarily famous for its nature. Lassithi is home to the Cave of Zeus, adorned with stalactites and a shimmering underground lake. The most famous landmark of the region is the Venetian fortress, which served as a leper colony for a long time;
• Rethymnon. A region that is especially popular among tourists. Here is the architectural pearl of Crete - the monastery of Arkadi. It is also worth visiting the caves of Melidoni, Ideon Andron and Sfedoni, and in Rethymno itself - the Venetian harbor, the fortress of Fortezza and the Museum of Archeology;
• Chania. The westernmost region of the island is famous for its luxurious beaches. Among them are the famous Elafonisi, Balos, Falasarna. People come here to walk along the Samaria Gorge, see the ancient Aptera and the Gramvousa fortress. Chania itself is a beautiful Venetian city where the Cathedral, the Maritime Museum and the Firkas fortress are worth visiting.

Cretan cuisine

Local cuisine - visiting card of Crete and its intangible attraction. Traditionally, on the table of the Cretans you can see olive oil, cheeses, herb salads. And although the cuisine of the island is in many ways similar to the traditions of pan-Greek gastronomy, it has its own characteristics. You should definitely try the calcuña pies, ofto (coarsely cut pieces of meat fried on coals), dacos appetizer, graviera and mizithra cheeses and the typical tsikoudia drink. Cretan cuisine is not complete without seafood: squid, fish and octopus.

Crete is one of the most valuable treasures of Greece. The island has placed on its territory majestic mountains, monuments of ancient civilizations, charming cities of the Venetian era and modern resorts, ready to show tourists real Cretan hospitality.