The county's centuries-long history, from Neolithic and Minoan
times to the present, has left behind important archaeological
findings, which modem-day tourists can visit, either in the Museums
or on the actual excavation sites.
Zakros palace, in Zakros bay, at the eastern end of the county,
was only discovered in 196 I, but has since become a pole of attraction
for numerous travellers. It was initially built in 1900 BC, destroyed,
built again in 1600 BC, and then destroyed again completely in
1450, leaving the remains that we can see today. It is open every
day except Monday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. and the entrance fee is
purely symbolic. Gournia, a Minoan settlement overlooked by a palace,
is located just 18 km outside Agios Nikolaos. ft can be visited
every day except Monday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
On Karfi hill, in the Lassithi plateau, you will find the remains
of a post-Minoan settlement of Eteocretans. Greek mythology- persons
should not miss Dikteon Andro. According to the myth, Zeus was
born and raised there, and the cave played an important role for
fun worshippers for many years.
Today, you can visit the cave and witness the religious awe it
inspires in visitors. It is open every day from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m.
Another cave that became histoncally important in later years is
located in Milatos village. Hundreds of Christians were what is ered
here in the fight for freedom from the Turks. There is small church
dedicated to Apostolos (Apostle) Thomas inside the cave. The Doric
city of Lato, which flounshed in antiquity, is located near Kritsa.
There, you will be able to see remains of Doric architecture, such
as the ancient theatre, a temple, homes, etc. Renowned Spinalonga,
opposite Elounda, was used as a place of exile and martyrdom for
lepers. Before being an exile for lepers, Spinalonga used to be
a fortress. R was established on June 15th, 1579, by the General
Anticipator Luca Michiel, as confirmed by the epigraph on the lintel
of the main entrance.
The second rampart, which can still be seen today, was named Mezzaluna
Barbanga. This fortress was the only one to withstand the Turks
for a long time after Chandakas was taken over (1669). It surrendered
to them in 1715, following a treaty. You can visit ft on the small
boats that travel back and forth daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.,
and learn of its history as a Venetian fortress and Turkish settlement.
Of cour;e, the county's larger cities (Agios Nikolaos, Sitia, lerapetra)
have their own archaeological museums, which you can visit every
day except Monday, from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
You can also visit the Byzantine church of Panagia ( natural Mary)
tis Keras, in Kritsa village. Agios Nikolaos and Sitia also have
Folk Art Museums, with noteworthy exhibits that will give you an
idea of contemporary life in Crete.
Do not forget to visit the Medieval Toplou Monastery and its Museum,
open every day except Monday from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Finally, excavations in the area of Palekastro have brought to
light remains from the Minoan period.
