23 July 2008
Sightseeing in Crete
Posted by George Mole under: Travel .
If you are planning on a vacation in Crete, there are some sights you simply can’t miss. There are many worthy sights to see on Crete, and a lot of historical interest. If you find yourself going to Crete, you must simply see the following places.
The Minoan ruins around the island of Crete are truly an exceptional and rare sight. There are many different sites throughout the island. One of the most popular and breathtaking is the Palace of Knossos, in Heraklion. While the original palace was built in approximately 2,000 BC, it was subsequently destroyed and rebuilt in even grander fashion. It is this massive palace that remains and can be visited and walked around.
Smaller than Heraklion, Chania is another great spot to see in Crete. Home to 55,000 people, this little city is found in the northwestern portion of the island. See Old Town there are walls in this portion of town and in the harbor that date from the days of Venetian influence on Crete. For more modern sites, be sure to check out the Courthouse, the Public Gardens and the clock tower on Dimokratias Street.
One of the largest castles on Crete is to be found in Rethymno, which is also home to an annual Wine Festival in July; other intersting festivals are held in the town as well. If you’re interested in attending the Wine Festival however. be sure to book ahead; it can be hard to find lodging during this very popular event.
Lake Voulismeni should not be passed over. You’ll find it near the town of Agios Nikolaos. Bronze Age ruins may be seen here as well. To get a feel for the culture of Crete, Agios Nikolaos is a place you should consider.
Crete is the largest Greek island and one of the largest islands in the Mediterranean. With its stellar climate it can be quite a busy tourist spot during various seasons throughout the year. Although it is an island, it is easy to get to. You can either board one of the many ferries or tour ships or catch a flight from the mainland of Greece or various other places.
So, if you are planning a Crete holiday, make sure to include these cities on your list of places to see. They each hold many historical sites and cultural attractions that will make your visit to Crete unforgettable. Take advantage of your holiday in Crete and submerse yourself in this unique island.