Chania

THE TOWN THAT’S LOVE AT FIRST SIGHT!

CHANIA

Discover the town step by step…

Chania is considered by many one of the most beautiful regions of Greece. Every year tourists from all over the world come to visit. Monuments from different historical periods, vivid nightlife, and magnificent nature. What else could one ask for? Whenever you choose to visit Chania one thing is certain: You will be fascinated!

CHANIA’S HISTORY

According to historical sources, Kydonia (the name of Chania during Antiquity) was built by Minoans on the hill of Kasteli. This location was chosen for its advantages on the settlement’s defense. It was a very important City-State of Crete during the Minoan civilization era. When the Romans occupied Crete, Kydonia was the first City to resist. But they didn’t make it. In 828 A.D. the whole island of Crete was occupied by Arabs and the name of the city changed into Al Chanea, which concluded to become its current name, Chania. In 961 A.D. the town got its freedom back, only to be conquered by Venetians in 1204 A.D. They were the ones who built the Fortress on Kasteli hill. In 1645 a big part of the city was destroyed by Ottomans. Many acts of revolution during the Greek Revolution started from the regional unit of Chania picking in 1821. In 1913, the Turkish left completely the island and Crete was reunited with the rest of Greece. Today Chania is one of the most popular destinations in Greece.

Museums

History that goes back through centuries!

Visit the museums of Chania and learn about the unique exhibits. The Archeological Museum of Chania includes exhibits going back to the Geometric Period (10th – 8th c. BC). At the Nautical Museum you’ll have the chance to see relic from the bottom of the sea. In the villages around Chania there are many Folk Museums that will take you back in time! In Chania you will also find museums such as the Museum of Typography, the School Life Museum, the Museum of Contemporary Art, and the Chemistry Museum.

Archeological Sites

Learn about our rich historical heritage!

In the district of Chania there are many Archeological sites all within an hour of Chania. You’ll find sites from the 11th century BC to the Ottoman Empire. Some of the most known ones are Aptera (founded in 8th century BC), Palaiokastro and Itzedin Fortress (founded during the Ottoman Empire), Ancient Kydonia (from where the history of Chania starts), Ancient Phalasarna (an important port of Crete during the 4th century), and Polyrinia (dating back to the 8th century BC).

Churches and Monasteries

An integral part of Greece

At Chania there are many churches and monasteries that many believers visit. The Monastery of Holy Trinity or Tzagarolo is one of the most important monasteries in Crete, since it has rich history. Believers come to visit the Monastery of Chrysopigi every year and the Monastery of Gouverneto or Our Lady of the Angels is one of the oldest monasteries of the island.

The rest of Crete…

Each and every corner of the island is unique! Each region has its own charm and will leave you with the best impressions.

Prefecture of Rethimnon

Take in the beautiful view from the Nida Plateau. Visit the picturesque town of Rethymno with the Fortezza Fortress and the Lighthouse. Don’t forget to visit the Preveli Lake with the homonymous beach and the Bali Beach.

Prefecture of Heraklion

Vivid city, famous Archeological Sites, clean beaches, and traditional villages. If you ever find yourself in Heraklio, you have to visit the Archeological Site of Knossos, the Matala village, and Voidomatis beach.

Lasithi Prefecture

There are many beautiful beaches in Lasithi such as, the beaches of the islands of Chrissi and Lefki islands, and the Palm Forest and Beach of Vai. Also worthy of a visit are the picturesque town of Agios Nikolaos, the prefecture’s capital that is built at the Mirabello Bay, as well as the famous island of Spinalonga.