Human occupation is evident at Gortyn from as far back as the Neolithic times, throughout the Minoan and Dorian periods, many artifacts found at Gortyn  originated from these era’s. Gortyn is considered to have developed through the entire Minoan era; however, many may disagree with this theory.

It’s true that Gortyn was in exsistence within the heroic ages, Homer made reference to Gortyn and Plato complemented Gortyn in his own works.The city of Gortyn surpassed the prominence of Phaistos during the first millennium BC, Phaistos having been the most important city on Crete during Minoan times. The time scale of its great prosperity, however, coincided along with the Hellenistic era, Gortyn exceeded in force and prosperity when compared to the other cities of Crete and therefore Gortyn took the predominance within the island, ruling over the entire valley from Messara to Levina, and later during the 2nd century after the destruction of Phaistos extended its power to Matala.

Gortyn experienced prosperity and good relations with Ptolemy IV of Egypt. Under Roman rule Gortyn sided with the Romans and averted the disasters that lots of other Cretan cities suffered when they were attacked by Quintus Caecilius Metellius Cretecus around 68 BC. Gortyn achieved capital status during the Roman occupation, but raiding Arabs destroyed Gortyn in 828 AD.

One of the very first Christian places of worship was built at Gortyn, and today we see the ruins of the grand Cathedral (Basilica) dedicated to St Titus who was the primary bishop of Crete. The Cathedral was constructed during the 6th century; its cruciform structure contains 4 pillars which support the dome.

The Archaeology of Gortyn

Excavations of Gortyn were begun in 1894 by the Italian School of archaeology based at Athens. The excavations showed that Gortyn was inhabited around the Neolithic age. Ruins of the settlement on the citadel of Gortyn were found and dated to 1050 BC, their collapse dating in the seventh century BC. Later the site was fortified with a wall.

At the top of the hill inside the citadel a temple was found dating around the 7th century BC. In this area two embossed plates were found in addition to a few more sculptures and paintings and plenty of other clay figurines, black and red figure paintings were found in the temple. Graves dating around the geometric age were found on the south side of the citadel.

Concerning the lower town, the excavation uncovered the position for the Agora (market) and also the temple of Pythian Apollo, which is 600 meters from the Agora. Around the foot of Prophet Elias found traces of a sanctuary of Demeter.

Monuments in Gortyn

The heart of Roman Gortyn will be the Praetorium, the seat belonging to the Roman Governor of Crete. The Praetorium was built-in the first century AD, but it was altered significantly over the next eight centuries. Inside the same area, between the Agora plus the temple of Apollo is the ruins belonging to the Roman baths (thermae), along with the temple of Apollo, an honorary arch, and also the temple for the Egyptian deities using the worship statues of Isis, Serapis and Anubis. Components of the Roman settlement, for example the theatre (2nd century AD), were unearthed during excavations. The theatre has two entrances and a half-circular orchestra, the outline that may be seen today.

Behind the Roman Theatre is what has long been called the “Queen of the Inscriptions”. These inscriptions are the laws of the city of Gortyn that happen to be inscribed in the Dorian dialect on large stone slabs and still plainly visible.

The law code of Gortyn

The Gortyn code was discovered in 1884, it is the code of ancient Greek law. The remnants at Gortyn are the oldest and most complete examples in the world. Parts of the Gortyn code are displayed in museums including “The Louvre” in Paris. The remaining stones at the Gortyn site happen to be incorporated in to the structures surrounding the amphitheatre.

Europa and Zeus

In Classical Greek mythology, Zeus is said to have abducted the princess Europa. Zeus disguised himself as a bull and took Europa from Lebanon, There’s a Plane tree on the Gortyn site (close to the cafe) where it is stated, marks the spot where Zeus and Europa coupled. This lead to the birth of 3 offspring, Rhadamanthys, Sarpedon and Minos, all three became kings of palaces around Crete, The most  famous one being Knossos under the rule of Minos, hence we obtain “MINOAN”.There were many different coins found on Crete, some have Europa represented on them, people honored Europa and her appearing on the coins showed this.

The Odyssey As outlined by Book III of Homer’s The Odyssey, Menelaus and his awesome fleet of ships, returning home from the Trojan War, were blown off course towards the Gortyn coastline. Homer describes stormy seas that pushed the ships against a sharp reef, ultimately destroying the majority of the vessels but sparing the crew.

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Knossos was initially inhabited for many thousands of years, starting with neolithic settlements in the 7th millennium B . c ., and then had been completely abandoned following it’s destruction within 1375 B . c . which in turn symbolised the demise of the Minoan world.

The very first structure at the small hill near the Krairatos river, had been constructed about 1900 B . c . over the ruins from earlier settlements.
It had been ruined initially with all the various other Protopalatial palaces all-around The island in 1700 B . c ., most probably by way of a huge earthquake or maybe overseas invaders.
It had been quickly rebuilt into an extremely sophisticated development, right up until it’s abandonment.
The site ended up being damaged many times because of earthquakes, invasions,as well as in 1450 B . c . from the enormous volcanic eruption from Thira.
Plus the attack of the Mycenaeans, that implemented KNOSSOS into becoming their own capital when they reigned over the island of Crete right up until 1375 B . c.

Sir Arthur Evans, an English archaeologist  excavated the KNOSSOS site in the year 1900 AD.
He restored significant aspects of the development in many ways, so it’s now conceivable  to comprehend the particular magnificence and sophistication of the construction which progressed and grew over a number of millennia.
The site even expanded  to take up around twenty thousand sq metres.

[View with PicLens]

Strolling throughout it’s intricate multi-storied complexes, it’s possible to understand precisely why the very palace of KNOSSOS ended up being linked to the mythological labyrinth.
In accordance with Traditional Greek mythology, the actual construction was first created by famous architect Dedalus, using such a complexity that no one put into the labrynth, could possibly have ever found their way out.

King Minos, whom commissioned the actual structure, subsequently, had the architect Deadalus imprisoned, to make sure that he  wouldn’t disclose the exact construction system to anybody.

Dedalus, who was  an excellent designer, constructed 2 pairs of wings, so that he and his boy Icarus, could  fly off the island, and they did.
Concerned with their particular exit method, Dedalus cautioned Icarus to never fly very near  the Sun, as the wax of which kept the actual wings assembled would certainly melt.

At a tragic shift in events, during their getaway Icarus, youthful and as impulsive as he turned out to be, travelled higher and higher before the solar rays softened and broke the wings, and  the adolescent young man dropped to his death, down into the Aegean ocean.

The actual Labyrinth became the home for the “Minotaur” from Greek mythology,
many link the particular palace of KNOSSOS using the story for Theseus, which tells of him slaying the actual Minotaur.
The particular Greek fable from the palace regarding Theseus and also the Minotaur can be exciting, yet wandering throughout the ruins in KNOSSOS in the present day, it can be difficult for you to envision that it was a host to torment and killing.

The particularly exceptional decorative wall frescoes, which in turn  tell’s us of the individuals who acknowledged the particular subtleties regarding daily life, along with the mysteries found in nature itself.

For any tourist these days, the space surrounding the ramp that leads towards the principal palace, instantly reveals a vibrant strata with ruins that may extend over millennia.

Left from the entry ramp, 3 huge kouloures which are in the form of huge rounded pits expose inside their deep base, the actual ruins of the Prepalatial construction.

The very palace  for KNOSSOS, ended up being the centre of administration on the whole of the isle throughout Minoan periods, plus the situation therefore permitted for unparalleled development and wealth, as noticed through the array of storage magazines, work spaces, and also wall frescoes.

The elaborate Throne room featuring a gypsum throne, along with benches to allow for 16 people, a central courtyard, and then the theatre, combined with the royal chambers, portray  KNOSSOS as being a community, associated with intricate traditions along with astonishing historic events.

The particular restorations carried out by Sir Arthur Evans are criticized as being imprecise, and there’s a sense of which the majority of the characteristics had been reconstituted (to make use of Evans’ expression) employing at most beneficial “educated guesses”.

To the tourist nevertheless, the actual restorations make the incomprehensive strata of the ruins, with their earlier magnificence a little more evident,
They also deliver that majesty, associated with Minoan lifestyle in the palace.

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Around Chania you’re sure to discover something which will end up as excellent memories of the trip to this specific unique location.

It’s natural beauty is wonderful! a lot of the Chania you’ll want to discover is actually nestled near the old harbour, all the museums, galleries, places of worship and also localcraft outlets are generally all right here.

Another highlight is an excellent selection of foodstuff being offered through the taverna’s and kafenion’s which line the waterside,

or maybe drift about, up the narrow back roads to uncover various hidden treasures,

and take a seat perhaps towards the end of the day and reflect at the finds on this amazing destination you have made.

You will want to agree Chania can be a wonderful incredible location, filled with history and

traditions.

This is a place set upon an island, where most tourists encounter spectacular things and also observe the harmony of nature in all it’s glory.

Having sandy shorelines nestled around the foot of majestic mountains. Plus the coastline expands endlessly having a delicate lacy froth lapping on the fine sand around concealed coves and inlets.

The island even offers gorges, rich and Impenetrable, caverns and also estuaries and rivers steeped with religion and folklore,

lavish natural plateau’s blanketed by olive groves along with citrus fruit trees and vineyard’s growing on the mountain’s

The island is actually self-sufficient; this is a vibrant country which has an abundance of extraordinary flora and also fauna.

Chania harbor can be especially superb,anytime of the night or day;

the lighting generates a new image with every passing moment.

Around the harbour. may perhaps, be an effective way to look at and take pictures among the fine old buildings in Venetian and also Turkish style and design.

To get a distinct perspective on the harbour, Wander down the harbour retaining wall ,towards the Venetian Lighthouse.

Relax and take a walk about the backstreets,

go uphill and look back down on to the actual harbour.

Chania continues to be inhabited from pre-historic times right up until today.

3, 000 — 2800 B . c . Historical artifacts demonstrate the presence of early Kydonia (Chania)

2800- 1150 B . c . Minoan civilization Byzantine era

1252 — 1645 AD Venetian Occupation

1645 — 1897 AD Turkish Occupation

1898 AD Basis on the Cretan State, Chania has become the capital of Crete

1913 AD Unification involving Crete and Greece

Crete possesses quite a few excellent architectural gems. Including the respectable property associated with Baroness Von Schwartz,

Turkish and also Venetian invaders, affected most of the architectural mastery belonging to the city of Chania, and several structures of this time continue to stand today.

Venetians fortified towns, cities, and villages throughout the occupation employing experienced Italian engineers, as they constructed fortifications around strategic points,

along with several towers which can be observed these days all around the island.

It really is apparent within Chania, of the Venetian occupation, through the exclusive Venetian neighborhoods, using pastel coloured buildings within the narrow avenues.

Often the Venetians embellished Chania by using monuments, and great public complexes,

water fountains, loggias, clocks and also piazzas, that may be admired nowadays.

Unquestionably the Turkish occupation definitely contributed influences upon Cretan structures.

Such an example regarding this is actually the Megalo Neorio construction, this today houses the main Arsenali, Center of Mediterranean Architecture.

The hammam or perhaps the baths house, is one more influence that has been introduced through the Ottoman occupation.

There’s also several examples of countryside Cretan homes that can consist of basic, cubic buildings made from natural stone, timber and also earth with one or two openings.

The outer surface on the buildings are usually decorated with ochre, azure or even pink.
Generating certain views of Chania, to resemble scrumptious Neapolitan ice creams!

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Rethymno is  on Crete’s north shore situated between Chania (60km to the west) and Heraklion (80km to the east)
There is a 12km long sand beach at the eastern end of Rethymno  (one of the largest in Crete), and at the western end there is a  rockier coastline that provides a dramatic atmosphere .
Rethymno is the centre for commercial and administrative dealings, for the whole area which has over  25,000 residents.
Rethymno port/harbour is open year round, it has ferries sailing regularly to Piraeus on the mainland. During the summer months, it’s easily possible to take a boat trip to  Santorini island from Rethymno.
The islands bus service is an great way to tour  round the  island, catch a bus and take a culture trip, as the bus service  passes through the smaller villages.
History of Rethymno
The city of Rethymno is situated on remains of an ancient Mycean city called “Rithymna”, But It lost importance around the 3rd century AD.
But Rithymna kept hold of its autonomy and independence, Rithymna still produced its own coins.
The town continued to be inhabited throughout the Byzantine period, some mosaics from the Roman and byzantine era’s have been found on the site.
When the Venetian’s were in occupation,  Rethymno was awarded city status, There was need for an intermediary port  by the Venetians, situated between Chania and Heraklion, and so Rethymno was the choice due to it’s location.
Rethymno became the 3rd largest city on the island  when it was theVenetian administrative centre for culture.
Algerian pirates burned and robbed  Rethymno  In 1567 , completely destroying almost all of the city.
In 1646, Turks ruled over Rethymno, within the period of Ottoman rule, lots of towns and cities  fell into decline and dis-repair, this included Rethymno, and the whole island struggled for independence.
The inhabitants of  Rethymno were involved in the fight for freedom,  many of the area’s freedom-fighters were  executed. The Russian army were in  control of Rethymno during 1897 to 1909. In 1913 the island of Crete was integrated with the rest of Greece. During the German occupation period,  the people of Rethymno were active fighting partners  in the resistance.
Rethymno’s  grown in the past 25 years,  Rethymno’s  economy has flourished thanks to the  tourism industry,  the culture is also benefiting because of the university based in the town. Rethymno has an old aristocratic appeal, search out it’s Byzantine and Hellenic-Roman remains, or have a wander through,narrow streets and alleys,  arched doorways and old  staircases of stone, admire the 16th century buildings and the little, pretty Venetian harbour.
The stunning 16th century Venetian Loggia, it was originally a club for gentlemen!
it is now used as the office for the ministry of culture. It  sells the entrance tickets for the museum of archaeology.
On the “Palaiokastro”The Venetian Fortezza castle, dominates  the town.
It ’s construction in the late 16th century was to protect Rethymno from  pirate raids and  the Turks. “Palaiokastro” translated is “old Castle” it was adopted by the Venetian’s which leads us to believe that there was a castle on the site before the Venetian fortezza was built. The old castle would have been the acropolis for the old town of Rithymna.
In the Fortezza, there was a central plaza, with a glorious house overlooking it, this would have been the residence for the Rector; there was also storerooms  used for the artillery, it would house canons and other weapons.
There was also a house,  for 1 of the 2 Venetian councellors for Rethymno, various  parts of the houses can still be seen.
You get wonderful views  of the town, from the fortezza, be it day or night.
The “Erofili”, municipal theatre, can also be found at the Fortezza.
The “Erofili”,  an outdoor theatre that shows many performances during the Renaissance Festival.
The elaborately decorated Rimondi fountain is found at the hub of the Venetian town. it is situated in Platanos square. The fountain, built by A. Rimondi (hence the name) in 1626, provided drinkable water to Rethymno’s inhabitant’s.
The Holy Virgin church was changed by the Ottomans, into the Neratzes mosque . But now it is used as a music conservatory, the best architectural parts  of this building have to be the triple domes, and also the doorframe.
The minaret sited near to the Neratzes mosque was constructed in 1890.
The Turks also  turned a Venetian monastery into mosque, it is the Kara Mousa Pasa Mosque.  It is now used as the home for the board of restoration.
The “Porta Guora”. The only remaining part  of the defensive wall is the gateway to the old Venetian town.
If you wish for  tranquility, then visit the municipal gardens,
Many activities are organised and heldwithin the beautiful gardens through the year, in July every year, there’s a popular wine festival thats held in the gardens, and on 7-8th of Nov there’s another festival in memoriam to the destroying of the Arkadi Monastery.

Rethymno can cater for all visitors, whether it’s business or for pleasure.
There’s a good range of Night-life around Rethymno old town, around the harbour, it can get quite intense. If you just fancy a quiet drink and relaxing, then try a bar at the beachfront.
You will always find yummy fresh fish at  the many tavernas sitting around the harbour,
Or maybe  try the restaurants and tavernas up the backstreets, you can  get a tasty lunch or dinner at a fair price.
There is also plenty of shops to visit in the old town,  maybe pick up some souvenirs,  for your family  and friends back home.

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There is a pretty sea-side village in western Crete, It’s called Almyrida.
Almyrida has  a little harbour and wonderful family friendly blue flag beaches, offering a variety of watersports. There is plenty of friendly Taverna’s and shops.

The area around Almyrida is fabulous, with it’s picturesque little villages, and glorious views of the majestic  (lefka ori)  white mountains.

On the outskirts of Almyrida, on the way to Kalyves,  Mosaics and tombs of a fifth century church have recently been discovered.

The Turks and the Greek revolutionaries staged their last struggle at Almyrida in 1896.

Zorba the Greek was filmed near to Almyrida, in the small village of Kokkino Horio.

There are many interesting little villages and historical sites in the vicinity, along with museums and craft workshops that you can visit, such as the glass factory at Kokkino Horio, or the silk weavers at Kalamitsi and traditional lace making at Gavlahori.

Chania, Crete’s old capital, is only a 35 minute drive away, It has many attractions to suit everyone, be it shopping for souveneirs, leather goods or having a relaxing lunch at the harbour side, avisit to the naval museum or a boat trip, what ever takes your fancy, Chania will provide.

Aptera, A ruined ancient city, lies along the road from Almyrida to Chania,It is one of the most important historical sites on Crete, and with it’s glorious views over almyrida, souda bay,and the white mountains it is  worth a visit. parking is easy and you can drive all the way down to the Turkish fort and enjoy the scenery.

Almyrida’s taverna’s, cafe’s and shops have friendly service and cater for all needs, whether you just want a loaf of bread or internet connection you will find it here.
If you want somewhere to de-stress and unwind then Almyrida is perfect, laze away the day on the beautiful beaches, taking the occasional dip in the Agean just to cool off. or maybe take a long lunch at one of the many beachside taverna’s, Greek salad and local wine or a bottle of “Mythos” lager YUMMY!

Because Almyrida is close to the national road (Crete’s main highway) it is an ideal location from which to explore and discover the many attractions of Crete.

It is easy to visit the southern and western coasts of the island from here, Take a trip to Elafonissi or fallasarna beaches, or head to the east and seek out the wonders of Knossos and Phaistos or the museums in Heraklion.

You can rent a private villa with its own pool,from owners who would be pleased to share their expert knowledge of the island, it’s beaches, historic sites, or simply somewhere to eat!

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South of Topolia, follow the road to Elafonisi beach from Kissamos,  after you pass through the narrow tunnel you will see the cave Agios Sophia on the right hand side of the road.
There is a taverna situated at the bottom of the steps that lead up to the cave, The proprieter always wears traditional Cretan dress.
Climb up the stone stairway to access the cave,stop and look up at the flora that cover the cliff walls and the wild birds that nest among them.
Ring the bell on entering (it is said to be lucky)
On entering the cave you notice the cooler temperature, a welcome relief from the heat of the sun.
To the left there is the small chapel  dedicated to Agios Sophia, pass through this tiny chapel and enter the main cavern with it’s impressive show of stalegmites and stalegtites the largest measuring about 6 metres.
The cave itself measures approximately 20 metres high and 70 metres across,
There have been many ancient finds inside the cave including sea-shells from around the neolithic period.
Fig trees grow around the cave,and pigeons can be seen roosting amongst the rock formations.
The cave of Agios Sophia is still used for religious worship.
And there is still more of the cave network yet to be explored,
If you’re heading to elafonisi beach,then take a break and have a look at this grand cavern of natural wonder.

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Crete, The biggest of all the Greek Islands, covers an expanse of approximately 3,220 square Mls.

Walking in Crete is gaining in worldwide recognitionas an activity holiday location, a result of the islands mountainous terrain. The White Mountains in western Crete provide exceptional views.

It is possible to walk in Crete at any time of year.

The island of Crete offers you plateaus like Lassithi, Omalos and Nida. Also caves to discover like Ideon and Dikti, and several gorges, adding to Crete’s impressive scenery.

Crete definitely is at its best in the spring, once the island offers an abundant covering of wild plants.

Over 2 000 kinds of flowers bloom on the island, 150 varieties being endemic.

the whole of the island, which consists of mountains, woodland, plateaus and gorges, also the seashore gets a covering of wild flowers. Daisies, irises, Poppies, orchids, oleander and hyacinths are sure to be seen while you are walking Crete.

Wild mountain herbs fragrance the air using pungent aromas, rosemary, sage, thyme, oregano, and definitely the Cretan love herb dittany.

There are many different levels of walking in Crete because of its different landscape.

Chania and its nearby area is extraordinary in springtime, it boasts beautiful scenery.

Towards the south of Chania you will discover The Samaria Gorge.

The gorge is breathtaking, it includes vertical cliffs 500m high and it’s also an impressive 16km long.

Within the gorge you will observe and smell the rare varieties of Cretan flora, cypress trees, dittany and various herbs.

The gorge just happens to be home to the wild goat of Crete, (kri kri),

Some other gorges while in the area that you might wish to visit are Agia Irene, Stakia and Topolia gorges.

Topolia can be described as spectacular and dramatically wild gorge, and Agia Irene is abundant with lush vegetation.

Either gorges are stunning in the springtime, and the scenery is much prettier when the wild flowers will be in bloom.

The highlight for the Chania region would be the White Mountains, with their rugged grey peaks, veined with the white contrasting stone, endemic wildflowers and wispy cloud topped snowy peaks.

But its its not all mountain walks, you can even explore the numerous caves that can be found down the coast, or just have a gentle wander across the beach, experiencing the balmy water lapping at your feet, as well as sand between your toes..

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Price, obviously cutting out the middle man and booking your own flights etc, the price of a private villa for a family can work out much cheaper than a decent hotel.

Privacy and space Rather than being cramped into confined hotel rooms you will have your own private comfortable space, possibly a private garden and pool to give the children their own space while still being safe and close at hand, usually with a selection of DVD’s,books and games if required.

There is no need to rush back to a hotel for an evening meal or get out of bed at a particular time for breakfast.

There will usually be cooking facilities available should you wish not to eat out, this may be of advantage if there are people with special dietary requirements among your party. It may also give you a chance to try sourcing (or catching) and preparing the local food.

You will be able to come or go as you please without worrying about the time, or being disturbed by other guests doing likewise in the room next door.

You may choose to be in an environment that brings you closer to the local community, for instance in a village that may add another dimension to your stay.

The property owners must have been greatly impressed by the location to make such an investment. They will therefore usually have a wealth of local knowledge and enthusiasm about the local area, helping you to make the most out of the area (anyone speaking to my wife about our property please allow one hour minimum!).

To View other vacation villa rentals see below
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Situated down the coast of western Crete is Aptera, it dominates from 200 metres above among the Mediterranean’s biggest purely natural harbours, Souda bay, the large purely natural bay has two Minoan harbours Kissamos and Minoa now named Marathi and Kissamos they can be found near Kalyves.

In the Hellenistic years of 3-4 BC Aptera was at it’s peak, being an independent city state, Aptera minted it’s own currency containing of up to 76 kinds of coin.Aptera had influences in foreign affairs in addition to its own which it governed well.

Aptera’s army of skilled archers were well-known. As mercenaries they fought overseas, bringing back riches and wealth for their home state.Through the Crete civil war in the 2nd and 3rd century, Aptera took the side of Knossos and fought against Gortyn.

The name Aptera has two theories to its origin.

A musical contest between the sirens plus the muses is a theory.The sirens were cast wingless into the sea; the muses were the victor’s.It truly is declared that this action formed the islands of Lefkae (white islands).

In Greek wingless roughly translates to apterae.

The location where the St. John`s church is sited, has become a temple, constructed in honour of the Muses.

2.Some say Aptera gets it’s name from the ancient Minoan king ‘Apteron’.

He was the founder of that city and for that reason the 1st ruler.

In 67BC, The Romans took occupation of Aptera, giving rise to a new peak within the 1st and 2nd centuries AD.

Earthquakes started the demise of Aptera in 364/365 AD and after the earthquake of 700BC, Aptera was abandoned as a city.

Since 1182 a tiny monastery established on the site, and was occupied right up to 1964.

Paleokastro, A little settlement on the site of Aptera was destroyed by Barbarians in 1588.

However in 1866 A Turkish fort was built, the Turk’s used material belonging to the Aptera site to construct the Itzedin fortress at Kalamni.

Dating back to the Minoan era, Aptera has grown to be one of the most important archaeological sites on the island of Crete; features of the 4km long exterior wall fortifications can easily still be seen.

Aptera was once a great city, it isn’t hard to think From the size and scale of Aptera and it’s prominent position over Souda bay it became a main centre of shipping, commerce and administration.

There are stunning views out across the Apokoronas area,taking in the majestic White Mountains and Souda Bay, clearly visible from the Turkish fort.

There have been many archeological finds on the site of Aptera, these are visible in various museums in Crete and some in Istanbul, although many more are believed to lay undiscovered?

The national road that runs across the island affords easy access for the site of Aptera with easy parking, for miles around you can see the Turkish fort sitting on the headland.

Because Aptera has not been as fully excavated as Knossos, you will find it a quieter place to go to, it has maybe an eerie atmosphere in the dramatic setting with views to die for!

Try Aptera its well worth a visit.

If you stand on Sophia’s House patio facing the sea and look to the left you can clearly see the Turkish Fort next to the ancient site of Aptera.

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