Crete
Crete lies to the South East of the Greek mainland,
almost equidistant from Europe, Asia and Africa. It is long,
narrow and very mountainous, measuring 250 Km from East to West
and some 35 Km, on average, from North to South. The highest
peak is in the centre reaching up to 2500 m at the summit of
Mt. Ida. Plateaux, gorges and fertile valleys make the natural
environment of Crete constantly changing. Shores lined with
inaccessible rocks alternate with endless sandy beaches.
Crete is also renowned for its mild climate and the variety
of its flora and fauna. The variety and extent of Crete's
coastline make it possible for bathers to enjoy an infinite
number of different places to swim, all of them lapped by warm,
crystal clear water. The island offers many possibilities for
sports such as sailing, windsurfing and mountain climbing.
Mountainous Crete is a real challenge for those who love hiking
and mountain walking.
The population is over half a million people and is mainly located
in the main cities-ports of the island. Hania, Rethymno, Heraklion,
Agios Nikolaos and Sitia are on the North coast, while Ierapetra,
the only port on the South coast, is located on the shores of the
Libyan Sea facing Africa.
The age old history of Crete is testified to by Prehistoric sites,
magnificent Minoan palaces, dating back to 2000 years BC, Greek and
Roman ruins, Arab remains, Byzantine churches, Venetian walls and
castles, Turkish minarets and Second World War fortifications.
Crete, the birthplace of Zeus, was also the home of
Europa and the legendary King Minos, Theotokopoulos (El Greco) and Kornaros,
Venizelos and Kazantzakis among others.
Although the rebellious populace shook the island from time to time, it
continued to develop both economically and culturally through the ages.
Its strategic location at the crossroads of many civilizations has led to
a significant cultural, commercial and agricultural development, which
continues up to the present.
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