Crete (Heraklion), Greece

More about Crete (Heraklion), Greece Points of Interest

• Knossos Palace -

  Crete's archaeological gem is the largest and most important of the Minoan palaces. Dating back 7,000 years, Knossos was the mythological home of King Minos who kept the menacing Minotaur in the palace's underground labyrinth. .

• Heraklion -

  Occupied since the Minoan era, the island's capital was officially founded in 824 by the Saracens. The famed Palace of Knossos and the Archeological Museum are just two of the bustling city's many attractions.

• Kera Kardiotissa Monastery -

  Considered Crete's most important Byzantine church, inside you'll find remarkably vivid frescoes from the 14th and 15th centuries. The monastery is equally famous for its Virgin Mary icon, which is believed to have performed miracles.

• Spinalonga Island -

  Lying just offshore from the seaside resort of Elounda, Spinalonga Island was once the home of a mighty 16th century Venetian fortress. The now-deserted island served as a leper colony until 1957.

• Plateau of Lassithi -

  Rising over 2,700 feet, the plateau offers fertile valleys filled with orange groves, vineyards, and picturesque villages. But it's probably best known for the thousands of charming windmills that dot the lush landscape.

• Elounda -

  Once the stopping off point for lepers heading to Spinalonga Island, today, this picturesque seaside resort boasts luxury hotels, quaint tavernas, stunning beaches and breathtaking sea views that stretch across Mirabello Bay.

• Arolithos Cultural Village -

  Arolithos may look centuries old but it's actually a recreated Cretan village. Built in 1988, the town boasts art workshops, two houses, a hotel, a restaurant and a tavern, a café and a small church.

• Thrapsano Village -

  Thrapsano is renowned for its pottery and ceramics. This ancient art form has flourished here dating back over 4,000 years and Thrapsano's craftsmen are said to be descendents of Minoan potters.