Historical sightseeing around Chania

Aptera – Powerful Ancient City

Following a 20-minute scenic drive from Chania is the archaeological site of Aptera, one of the most significant ancient sites of Western Crete. In antiquity, the city’s strategic location, right above Souda Bay, allowed it to control all naval activity in and around the largest natural harbour in Crete and one of the Mediterranean’s largest. Still standing today are the city fortifications, the Roman Cisterns and Baths, the Monastery of St. John the Theologian, the Theatre, and an Ottoman Fort from where you will have the privilege of experiencing the best view over the Gulf of Souda.

Archeological Museum of Chania

Visit the unique archaeological museum of Chania. The museum includes the archaeological riches of the regional unit of Chania from the first traces of human presence in the city to the 4th century AD. Witness and learn the history of the island, where the first civilization of Europe, the so-called Minoan one, was born and flourished.

Venizelos Tombs

One of the most popular spots offering a panoramic view of Chania awaits you: the Venizelos family tombs. Here, at the small church of Prophet Elijah, are the tombs of the famous Greek statesman Eleftherios Venizelos and his son Sophocles. In the same spot on 9 February 1897, the Cretans waged a historical battle for their autonomy and subsequent unification with the Greek State.