Activities and Excursions » Historic Crete
Experience Historic Crete
The island of Crete is a cultural melting pot with over 5000 years of history with every civilisation leaving its mark on the history of the island, from classical temples and Minoan palaces to Venetian and Turkish fortresses. Crete is said to be the birthplace of modern civilisation, as well being as the birthplace of Zeus, the king of the Greek gods. As you would expect there are many museums to visit which house some of the best artifacts to be found.
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Palace of Knossos & Archaeological sites
Crete is home to many archaeological sites of interest across the island significantly the Minoan period with the sites of Knossos, Malia, Zakros and Phaistos being the most visited. (A guided excursion to Knossos with local coach pick -up is usually available and operates twice weekly). The dramatic Roman remains at Aptera overlooking Souda Bay are also well worth a visit and include remains of baths and a theatre. Many of the artifacts from these sites are to be found in Crete’s archaeological museums.
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Museums of Crete
Possibly the most notable is the Archaeological museum of Heraklion, one of the largest museums in Greece containing the largest collection of Minoan artifacts in the world. Also impressive is the new state of the art Archaeological museum of Chania, recently opened and housing over 4000 artifacts in a fantastic location overlooking the sea.