3 Impressive Must See Landmarks in Crete
Crete is considered a mini-Greece meaning that all we love about Greece is found in Crete, only in a smaller. No matter with who you are travelling, either with friends, family or your partner, Crete will captivate your soul and put a spell on you immediately. Be it its long and rich cultural background, its welcoming locals or the island’s sun-kissed bays, crystalline waters things to do and sights to visit.
Let’s take a look at a few landmarks that make Crete a hot tourist destination.
Samaria Gorge National Park is all the reason nature enthusiasts need to hop on the next plane headed for Crete. In fact the 10-mile natural park that overflows with natural beauties is a sight for soar eyes. If heaven was on earth, Samara Gorge would be it! The park boasts with waterfalls, rare flora and fauna, mountains as well as unique wild animals such as the famous Kri-Kri goat.
One of the most famed landmarks in Chania is the cross-shaped Agora (local market) which is found in the heart of the town within an architectural gem dating back to 1911. At the agora visitors’ senses have a feast while they stroll through the local shops that sell traditional products such as Cretan cheese, honey, herbs, souvenirs as well as meat and fish! Wanderlusters also find tiny local restaurants serving delicious food. Trying some of the food is a definite must! Visitors gaze wander from stall to stall, enjoying the fusion of colours created by the fresh vegetables, fruit, clothing and local-made carpets. The Cretans are known for their hospitality, and always offer visitors to taste a product before buying it, so do not hesitate to sample the delicious cheese, raki and delights they offer you! The colourful and bustling agora is a colourful experience mirroring the Cretan culture!
The archaeological site of Knossos is found just 5 kilometres of Iraklion. Multiple excavations of the site have brought to light that this location was inhabited as far back as the Neolithic Period in 6000 BC. Later on in 1900 BC the first Minoan Palace was constructed on the ruins of the Neolithic settlement. The palace was destroyed in 1700 BC but fortunately a new one replaced it. The royal palace covered an area of twenty-two thousand square metres! During 1700-1450 BC the Minoan civilisation was at its peak and Knossos was one of the most important city-kingdoms in the world. Unfortunately, during these years the settlement was hit by earthquakes only to be rebuilt again. At the Knossos archaeological site travellers find a lost civilisation! When strolling through the site, history buffs are amazed by all the ruins left behind. Some of the most impressive are the Royal Villa, the Royal Temple Sanctuary, the House of the High Priest and the Great Palace.
That’s all for now on Crete! Stay tuned for more.