Listed 100 (total found 280) sub titles with search on: Information about the place for wider area of: "CHANIA Prefecture CRETE" .
CHANIA (Prefecture) CRETE
The county of Hania is divided by the proud mountains called the Lefka
Ori into two completely different natural landscapes. The coastal zone, with
beaches 350km long, is richer and more densely populated. The sparsely populated
inner territory is one of the most sensual parts of Crete.
On most of its mountainous tops, temperatures are below zero and from December
to May they are covered with snow. On the mountain slopes there are many small
traditional villages with their stone houses turned towards the sun, forgotten
by time and which are interesting destinations of green Crete.
Day after day, more and more wanderers try to explore them on foot,
by jeep, by horse or by bicycle. The European Union promotes, with the programme
“Leader”, sojourns at rustic tourists’ shelters, in places like
Vamos, Milia, Keramia, Kasteli,
Askifou, etc. there is the
possibility for the tourist to taste Cretan life in its simplicity and particularity
in nature, to enjoy the Cretan diet with a glass of wine or tsikoudia, to take
part in celebrations and to feel the roots of European civilization.
Hospitable shelters, establishments for spending your free time and
shops with handmade carpets, fine jewelry, embroidery, traditional furniture,
ceramics and home-made products (cheese, cakes, marmalades, etc.) of excellent
quality guarantee an unforgettable stay.
(Text: Dr. Anastasia Kalpaki-Georgoulaki)
This text is cited December 2003 from the Chania
Prefecture Tourism Committee tourist pamphlet (2002).
AGIA (Village) THERISSOS
The village of Agia is 9km from Chania on the Chania - Alikianos road.
In the area there is Agia Lake and the remains of the Byzantine bishopric of Kydonia.
AGIA IRINI (Settlement) ANATOLIKO SELINO
The village of Agia Irini is 43km from Chania on the Chania - Alikianos
- Agia Irini - Sougia road. The area has a pleasant gorge and some Byzantine churches.
AGIA MARINA (Village) CHANIA
This suburb to the west of Chania is known for the many small and
picturesque hotels, tavernas, and pleasant sandy beach.
AGIA ROUMELI (Village) SFAKIA
Agia Roumeli is the small coastal village that you reach after walking
through the Samaria Gorge. A frequent boat service takes you directly to Loutro
and Hora Sfakion. Agia Roumeli has various hotels, rooms, and tavernas. In May
1941, the Greek government of Emmanuel Tsouderos and King George left Greece from
here when Crete fell to the Nazis. Agia Roumeli was destroyed by the Turks in
1867 after the battle of Aradena. However, the Turkish did not manage to penetrate
the defence of the canyon where all the women and children were protected. The
same had happened in 1866. The ancient Greek site of Tara, is on the left (east)
hill as you exit the gorge. Many of the finds from Tara are in the Archaeological
Museum of Chania. Tara flourished in Greek, Roman and Byzantine times. It was
an independent city and it had a glass producing factory. In Agia Roumeli are
the Byzantine churches of the Panagia, Agia Triada, and Agios Pavlos, a Turkish
castle, and a beautiful beach.
This text is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
AGIOS IOANNIS (Village) SFAKIA
Beyond Aradena the unpaved road continues west towards the small community
of Agios Ioannis. Agios Ioannis is 14km from Hora Sfakion on the Hora Sfakion
- Anopolis - Agios Ioannis road. The village of Agios Ioannis followed the fortune
of Anopolis and Aradena and it was destroyed in 1770 and 1867. From here some
of the families of the fighters managed to escape into the Lefka Ori and to the
safety of the Samaria Gorge. In 1823 thirty-two local rebels blocked the exit
of Agios Ioannis to the Samaria Gorge from the pursuing Egyptian troops which
were co-operating with the Turks. They faced a large army and all thirty-two were
killed, but they gave enough time to the women and children of the villages nearby
to escape to the protection of Samaria.
This text is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
It is also possible to climb Mount Pahnes, the highest peak of the
Lefka Ori (2,452m) from here.
AGRIA GRAMVOUSSA (Island) CHANIA
Imeri Gramvousa contains the remains of a Venetian castle (1579).
The castle, although built for 3,000 men, was never involved in a major battle.
The Venetians handed it over to the Turks in 1692 -- 23 years after Iraklion fell.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
AKROTIRI (Peninsula) CHANIA
The peninsula of Akrotiri rises to the northeast of Chania and acts
as a barrier that protects Souda Bay from heavy north winds. On the north coast,
sandy beaches provide excellent swimming, and the northeast has old monasteries
to visit. The airport and military facilities dominate the centre and south of
the peninsula. Many visitors come to Crete to see its rare wild flowers, and many
different kinds may be found from January to April on the Akrotiri.
This extract is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
ALIKAMBOS (Village) KRYONERIDA
Alikambos is 40km from Chania on a side road from the Chania - Vrises
- Hora Sfakion road. Alikambos was a centre of revolutionary activities against
the Venetians. The Venetians destroyed it in 1527 and prohibited the people from
rebuilding the town. In Alikambos one can see interesting old village houses with
Venetian remains, and a Byzantine church.
This extract is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
Alikabos has been a centre of revolutionary activities against the Venetians. The Venetians destroyed it in 1527 and prohibited the people from rebuilding the town. In the village one can see interesting old houses with Venetian remains, and a Byzantine church.
ALIKIANOS (Village) MOUSSOURI
Alikianos is 9km southwest of Chania, and the area has remains of
a Venetian tower and very important Byzantine churches.
ALMYRIDA (Settlement) CHANIA
Almirida, a small fishing village, lies along the east of the Souda
Bay opposite the cape of Akrotiri, within 25 kilometers from the city of Hania.
The surrounding area, with picturesque villages, lovely beaches, and historical
sites consists one of the most worth to visit areas in the island of Crete. Kera,
Plaka, Kambia, and Kokkino Horio are some of the most renowned and unforgettable
places to the numerous friends of Almirida.
The area has been just developed the last eight years, in a way that
the traditional characteristics which attracts the most demanding guests, remained
unspoilt.
Historically, it introduces great interest. The whole area used to
be a colony of the ancient Foinikes, a place named Finika exists in the area,
while some ancient ruins and tombs of the time were unearthed there.
At the entrance of Almirida archaeologists discovered Mosaic and tombs
which belong to the Royal Church rhythm of the 5th century A.D. Here the last
battle between the Greek revolutionaries and the Turks in 1896 took place.
Sights
There are a lot of places of interest which guests can visit: like
the "Diktamo Gorge" and the "gorge of Saint Nikolas" and the 215 caves scattered
in the area.
In the bay of Almirida is the islet "Karga", ideal for a small sea
trip, fishing and relax, while some remnants of ancient walls as well as tunnel
from the second world war are worth to see. The islet is also a refuge for migratory
and endemic birds.
Kokkino Horio a village where the famous film "Zorbas", based on the
novel of Nikos Kazantzakis the Cretan writer, was filmed stands in a small distance
from Almirida.
Another point of attraction is the small factory which produces items
from "blown glass", located also at Kokkino Horio.
A little further from Plaka to the south is the picturesque village
"Kambia", with traditional houses, flowery yards and the small chapel of "Agos
Nikitas". A local festival is organized every year at September 15 to celebrate
the Saint's name day
At Kambia you will find an exhibition with the work of the well known
painter Santorinakis, who has a special technique of painting on mirrors.
Plaka is the biggest village in the area with 250 permanent inhabitants,
occupying mostly with farming, cattle breeding, fishing and lately with tourism.
The visitor can admire here a magical sunset, as well as many other
attractions like the natural sea caves (nerospilia), the old houses, the narrow
stone paved streets and will enjoy the July festival "Plakiana", in honour of
the Cretan lyra player Mihalis Papadakis, where many old local customs are brought
to life.
Almirida has been characterized (by the authorities) as a place of
great natural beauty, and thus all efforts are made to preserve the authenticity
of it.
The climate due to the ever present olive trees which go as far as
the beach, and the Lefka Ori mountain range is temperate considered to be one
of the healthiest in the whole world!
Facilities
Almirida has tourist accommodation of all types and class. Not large
hotel resorts but many small family operated and well looked after with friendly
and quiet environment, which however can provide all the modern facilities.
Fresh fish and lots of Cretan specialties are offered at the small
taverns located on the coastal street by the sea. There also many bars, cafes,
music clubs etc to offer the visitors unforgettable evenings.
For your shopping there are shops with traditional products and souvenirs
of a wide range, and of course many mini markets which remain open until late.
There is regular bus transportation service to the town of Hania and
the surrounding villages in 24 hour basis.
This text is cited September 2004 from the Interkriti URL below, which contains images.
AMYGDALOKEFALI (Village) INACHORI
ANATOLIKO SELINO (Municipality) CHANIA
ANOPOLI (Village) SFAKIA
From Hora Sfakion an impressive ascent of 12km climbs to the plateau
of Anopolis, which is 600 metres above sea level. There is a bus from Hora Sfakion
late in the afternoon, returning in the morning. The village of Anopolis had many
inhabitants at one time but now the population is only about 800. Their main occupation
is agriculture and goats and sheep are raised on the plateau and the nearby mountains.
Anopolis is a very old place evident from traces of remains from the ancient Greek
eras that have been found. There are remains of cyclopean walls near Agia Ekaterini
Church. Anopolis had many inhabitants and its harbour was located in what is now
Loutro. It flourished mainly in the Roman and the Venetian Periods.
Anopolis was a revolutionary centre against the Venetians and was destroyed in
1365. Anopolis, and the province of Sfakia in general, was the centre of revolutions
against the Turks in Crete and was never inhabited by the Turks, making it the
only free place in Crete during the Turkish occupation. Anopolis is known today
for the hiking paths to the Lefka Ori and the aerial views of the south coast
of Crete from Agia Ekaterini and the site of ancient Anopolis.
This extract is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains imageσ.
ANOPOLIS (Ancient city) SFAKIA
Anopoli is a very old place evident from traces of remains from the ancient Greek eras that have been found. There are remains of cyclopean walls near Agia Aikaterini Church. Anopoli had many inhabitants and its harbour was located in what is now Loutro. It flourished mainly in the Roman and the Venetian Periods.
ANYDRI (Settlement) PELEKANOS
The village of Anidri is 5km east of Paleohora. The road from Paleohora
to Anidri gives exceptional views of the sea, valleys and small gorges, and it
makes a pleasant excursion. The village also has some interesting Byzantine churches.
This extract is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
APTERA (Ancient city) SOUDA
Aptera has Greek, Roman and Byzantine remains, as well as a Turkish
fort. On the top you will see a track to the right towards the Byzantine and Roman
remains. Looking south across the valley of Stylos, you will enjoy the view of
the Lefka Ori. The view is quite breathtaking from here in the spring when the
White Mountains are covered with snow.
Aptera was a powerful city of Crete. Legend says that Aptera (meaning
wingless) acquired its name after the defeat of the Sirens in a music contest.
The Muses clipped the wings of the Sirens and when the Sirens tried to fly, they
fell into the water and formed the small islands in Souda Bay.
Aptera has been in existence since Minoan times, and its name appears
in the tablets of Knossos. It became a very important city-state of Crete during
Greek times and was involved in the Cretan wars. It had two harbours. The first
one, Minoa, was at the north entrance to Souda Bay, where Marathi beach is today.
The second was on the other side of the bay where Kalami or Kalives is located.
These harbours dominated the entrance to the protected bay of Souda. Aptera continued
to be an important city during the Roman and first Byzantine periods but it was
destroyed by the Arabs in 823 A.D. The Venetians built a fort there which was
destroyed by the pirate Barbarosa.
The city prospered until its destruction by the Arabs and later it
was abandoned. It was reoccupied by the Byzantines and, in several places, impressive
city walls are still visible, which were 4km long at one time. In the middle of
the site there is a small temple dating from classical times, (second century
B.C.). It is assumed that the temple was dedicated to a pair of gods, possibly
Dimitra and Kori.
ARADENA (Settlement) SFAKIA
Aradena is 19km from Hora Sfakion on the Hora Sfakion - Anopolis -
Agios Ioannis road. After Anopolis the road becomes a dirt road, but it is easily
accessible. You will cross the gorge of Aradena over a wooden-planked bridge.
In the area, there is the abandoned village of Aradena, the Byzantine church of
Michael Archangelos, and the Aradena Gorge.
The abandoned village of Aradena is on the other side of the bridge. Aradena is
the site of the ancient Greek city, Aradin. It flourished during Roman, Byzantine
and Venetian times. Its inhabitants were once concerned with shipping, and Aradin
followed the fate of Anopolis and was destroyed in 1770 and in 1867 by the Turks.
The village has been abandoned; however, it is interesting to walk along the narrow
paths among the houses of the old village to see traditional village architecture.
This text is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
ASSI GONIA (Village) CHANIA
Asigonia, 35km from Rethimnon, is in the foothills of the Lefka Ori
or White Mountains and controls the eastern passage to the mountains. Because
of its location it was always a village that supported the rebels against the
Turks.
Asigonia has become a centre for traditional Cretan folklore and culture. This
may be due in part because it was the home of Georgios Psychoundakis, the author
of The Cretan Runner, a book that recounts stories of the resistance movement
during World War II and the local participation in it. On Agios Georgios' Day,
23 April, the local people bring their animals (mostly sheep and goats) from the
mountains to be blessed by the priest. They are milked, the milk is boiled and
then served to those in attendance. You can also reach the higher plateaus of
Kalikratis and Asfedou from here by a rough road.
This text is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
Because of its location Asi Gonia was always a village that supported the rebels against the Turks. It has now become a centre for traditional Cretan culture. This may be due in part because it was the home of Georgios Psychoundakis, the author of The Cretan Runner, a book that recounts stories of the resistance movement during World War II and the local participation in it.
CHANIA (Town) CRETE
Chania is the capital city of the prefecture of Chania. This beautiful
city on the north shore of Crete is about 1 hour (59km) from Rethimnon and 2 1/2
hours (137km) from Iraklion on the National Road. It is easily accessible from
Athens by regular flights a day during winter and summer. The International Airport
of Chania, 11km outside the city on the Akrotiri, also has regular flights to
other European countries. There is also a daily boat from Piraeus to Souda. Chania
is an ideal alternative to Iraklion for accessing and exploring the island. The
city is not as busy as Iraklion and has direct access to the other major cities
via the highway on the north side of the island.
This extract is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
ELAFONISSI (Island) CRETE
Elafonisi Island is near the southeast tip of Crete, 43km from Kastelli
and 76km from Chania. The road from Chrisoskalitissa continues as a dirt track
of 5km to Elafonisi. There are organized bus tours from Kastelli and Chania as
well as boat tours from Paleohora to Elafonisi. The area of Elafonisi has beautiful
beaches, in front of which is the island of Elafonisi itself.
This lovely islet was the site of a massacre of 850 women and children by the
Turks in 1824. The women and children were hidden there and as the Turks camped
on the beaches a horse found the shallow, 0.5 - 0.8 metre-deep water path to the
island. The Turks discovered the women and children and slaughtered them. There
is a memorial plaque on the highest point of the islet.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
ELOS (Village) INACHORI
Elos is one of the most beautiful old villages of Kissamos. It is
surrounded by chestnut, and plane trees and has running springs through the village.
In the middle of the village there are some coffee shops in which to enjoy a cold
drink in the shade of the tall trees.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
EPISKOPI (Village) CHANIA
Episkopi, Kissamos, is south of Kolimbari 32km from Chania on the
Chania - Kolimbari - Spilia - Episkopi road and it has one of the most fascinating
Byzantine bishopric churches of Crete.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
FALASSARNA (Beach) CHANIA
FLORIA (Settlement) KANDANOS
The village of Floria is 46km from Chania on the Chania - Tavronitis
- Floria - Kandanos road. It has two sections, Ano Floria and Kato Floria. The
village resisted the Germans in 1941 when they were marching towards Kandanos
and was completely destroyed. Floria has two Byzantine churches.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
FRANGOKASTELLO (Castle) SFAKIA
Frangokastello is 14km east of Hora Sfakion, on a large, bare, coastal
plain. The area of Frangokastello has a Venetian fort, a Byzantine church, and
a fine beach.
GAVDOS (Island) CRETE
Located 24 nautical miles from Hora Sfakia, Gavdos is Crete's most
southern island and the most southern point in Europe. During the summer months
there are boats to Gavdos from Hora Sfakion and Paleohora. It is possible to go
and return the same day but the island does not warrant a one day journey. The
attraction in Gavdos is its isolation, beautiful beaches, and clear waters. To
really enjoy these one should at least stay over-night.
There has been evidence found on Gavdos of occupation from Neolithic times and
strong indication of a Roman community dependant on Gortyn. The population is
thought to have been as high as 8,000 during the Middle Ages with Gavdos being
the seat of a bishop. The population has drastically decreased over the years
and there are now less then 100 permanent residents, mostly shepherds.
The tourist facilities on Gavdos are limited to a few rooms and tavernas around
the island. There are no buses and only one or two taxis but rides maybe found
with the three-wheeled vehicles that meet the ferry boats. About 4km from Karabe
harbour, in the main town of Kastri, there is a post office, telephone and a few
coffee shops, tavernas, and rooms to rent. In the summer there is also a doctor.
One of the best beaches is Sarakinos, a 2km walk north of the harbour on a dirt
track. Here, on this sandy cove, there are rooms to rent and several tavernas.
There are paths from the other two communities, Ambellos in the north and Vatsiana
in the south, to lovely sandy beaches. Here there are also some basic rooms to
rent and tavernas.
The temperature may reach over 40 degrees Celsius in the summer and there is little
protection from the sun on this barren island, so hikers should always have water
and a hat with them.
This text is cited Feb 2003 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
GEORGIOUPOLI (Municipality) CHANIA
GEORGIOUPOLI (Village) CHANIA
Georgioupolis lies at the northern coast of Crete, about 35km away from Hania and 20 km from Rethimno. It is a coastal village situated at the bay of Almiros, and belongs to the county of Apokoronas of the prefecture of Hania . . . Georgioupolis is built on the delta of the river Almiros. In fact it was called Almiros or Almiroupolis (city of Almiros) up to the beginning of the century when Crete united with Greece and the city took the name of the then king of Greece King George. About a mile from the village on the way to Hania is a small hill, on top of which the ruins of the ancient city Amfimalla was built.
Georgioupolis was first settled in modern times in the late 19th century (1880) , by Miltiades Papadogiannakis. Up to then the whole area was abandoned due to the swamps that surrounded the river delta. The fear of malaria kept every one away.With the passing of time however, and the efforts of the first settlers the swamps are dried, eucalyptus are planted and the city starts to grow. Its location halfway through the towns of Rethimno and Hania, helps to establish it as a port for boats following the north coast of Crete. The river delta enhanced with a small breakwater extending in the sea serves even today as a port for fishing and small tourist boats.
Although tourist facilities are expanding Georgioupolis is still a small tightly knit community of locals involved primarily with the traditional activities of stock breeding, farming and fishing. In the entrance to the village is a traditional bakery where you can taste some of the best tasting bread you have ever tried(!!). The village has adequate facilities for visitors but keeps its own character. The long stretches of golden sandy beaches in front of the village, the lake of Kournas close by and the proximity of the cities of Hania and Rethimnon, make it a good starting place for visitors. There are excursions by small boats to the surrounding beaches. There is also a small road-going train that can take you to an excursion to the surrounding areas including the springs and waterfalls at the nearby village of Argiroupolis.
This text is cited Dec 2003 from the Interkriti URL below, which contains images.
Georgioupolis is on the National Highway from Chania to Rethimnon:
39km from Chania, 20km from Rethimnon. It is a small town with hotels, restaurants
and cafes, a sandy beach and a wildlife refuge. Georgioupolis is the beginning
of a 10 kilometre stretch of beach that runs beside the highway from Chania to
Rethimnon.
GRAMVOUSSA (Peninsula) CHANIA
The peninsula of Gramvousa occupies the northwest of Crete and near
its tip it has two islands, a good beach, an anchorage for small boats in bad
weather, and the remains of a large Venetian castle. You may go to Gramvousa by
organized boat trip from Kastelli or on foot. The boat trip is one hour long and
the views of the rugged coastline are terrific. The hike, although not hard or
long, can be very difficult during the summer months, when the sun and heat are
strong. During the spring the area is blanketed in flowers. To go on foot you
drive west and after the harbour turn right and follow the road towards Neo Horio
and Kaliviani. From Kaliviani the road continues north towards the Gramvousa Peninsula.
The road stops near a church where you can leave your car and the well-marked
footpath starts here. It goes towards the tip of the peninsula and then it turns
left, and after a while, left again. At this point you have an exceptional view
of the islands and the anchorage. The Venetian castle on the island of Imeri Gramvousa
is also visible. Further west you can see the island of Pondiconisi and on a clear
day, in the far northwest, you can see the silhouette of the island of Antikithira.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
IMERI GRAMVOUSSA (Island) CHANIA
Imeri Gramvousa contains the remains of a Venetian castle (1579).
The castle, although built for 3,000 men, was never involved in a major battle.
The Venetians handed it over to the Turks in 1692 -- 23 years after Iraklion fell.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
On the NW coast of Crete the west coast of the gulf of Kissamos projects
northwards and forms a promontory that the ancients named Korykos Akran.
West of this tongue of land are two small rocky islets. The one north
of the promontory is Agriogramvoussa, south of it and to the west is Gramvoussa
itself.
Due to its strategic location, Gramvoussa was fortified by the Venetians,
who built a well-fortified castle on the top of a steepy rock at an altitude of
137 m. Construction on the castle of Gramvoussa started in 1579 and ended in 1582.
It was destroyed in 1588, however, when thunder struck on the powder store.The
castle was rebuilt in 1630.
It was one of the three castles to remain under Venetian dominion
after the Turkish occupation of Crete (the other two were those of Sitia and Spinalonga).
Even though the castle was impregnable, during the Venetian-Turkish
war the Italian commandant was bribed by the Turks and he gave over the castle
in 1692.
During the Greek uprising against the Turks, Gramvoussa played an
important and desicive role. After many attempts the castle was finally occupied
by the Cretan revolutionaries in 1825, when a team of Cretans disguised as Turks
entered the castle. Gramvoussa was the first part of Crete to be liberated by
the Turks.
The rocky island became a shelter for over 3000 people, and a base
of operations for the revolution teams. But it also became a base of pirates that
plundered every ship that passed to the seas around the island, so with the agreement
of the Greek Government a English-French garrison took over the island of Gramvoussa
in 1828. Today, the high walls of the Gramvoussa are preserved, half ruined but
awesome.
Opposite the island of Gramvoussa is the wonderful beach of Balos.
This text is cited September 2004 from the Interkriti URL below, which contains images.
KADROS (Settlement) KANDANOS
The village of Kadros is 66km from Chania on a left exit from the
Chania - Tavronitis - Kandanos - Paleohora road. There is a pleasant view of the
area from the village, located on a high hill, and nearby there are traces of
remainders of an ancient city (Kandanos according to Pashley) as well as Byzantine
churches.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
KAKODIKI (Village) KANDANOS
The village of Kakodiki is 65km from Chania on the Chania - Tavronitis
- Kandanos - Paleohora road, and has many Byzantine churches in different areas
of the village. Unfortunately the churches are locked.
KALAMITSI ALEXANDROU (Village) VAMOS
KALATHENES (Village) CHANIA
KALYVES (Small town) CHANIA
Kalives is a coastal village with a sandy beach 18km from Chania,
north of the Chania - Rethimnon highway. The village is at the eastern end of
Souda Bay and faces the Akrotiri.
The abundant water supply in this area accounts for the lush vegetation. Near the village there once was the Venetian fortress, Apicorno. The name of this region, Apokoronas, was taken from this fortress. Almirida has a fairly long, pebbly, sand beach and at one end there are several tavernas. Kalives is the probable site of one of two harbours of the important ancient city of Aptera in the steep hill above Kalives. The other harbour was Minoa on the anchorage of Marathi, on the other side of the bay.
This text is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
KANDANOS (Municipality) CHANIA
KANDANOS (Village) CHANIA
Kandanos is the capital of Selino and is 58km from Chania on the
Chania - Tavronitis - Kandanos road. Kandanos receives the most rainfall in
Crete and a small river flows there year-round. Kandanos is surrounded by olive
groves. Near Kandanos there are many interesting Byzantine churches.
In the Greek and Roman periods a city called Kandanos or Kandania flourished
here. Its position is not certain, but most people believe that it was at the
site of the modern city Kandanos, not in Kadros, more to the south, as others
assume. Remains from a very large building with a mosaic floor of the third
century A.D. were found here. The church in Tzevremiana, near Kandanos, is thought
to be on the site of a bishopric church from the first Byzantine period. Ancient
Kandanos might have been destroyed by the Arabs.
During the Turkish occupation, Kandanos became the home of some very wild Turkish
people and many battles took place here to drive them out. In World War II,
the people in Kandanos resisted the Germans and the town was razed to the ground
"so that it is never to be built again", as the inscription that was left says.
The scene of the heroic stand was south of Kandanos in a gorge. The Cretans
delayed a German force for two days and the ensuing death of twenty-five Germans
resulted in the destruction of Kandanos.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
KANTANOS (Ancient city) KANDANOS
In the Greek and Roman periods a city called Kandanos or Kandania
flourished here. Its position is not certain, but most people believe that it
was at the site of the modern city Kandanos, not in Kadros, more to the south,
as others assume. Remains from a very large building with a mosaic floor of the
third century A.D. were found here. The church in Tzevremiana, near Kandanos,
is thought to be on the site of a bishopric church from the first Byzantine period.
Ancient Kandanos might have been destroyed by the Arabs.
This extract is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
KEFALI (Village) INACHORI
The village of Kefali is 30km south of Kastelli on the Kastelli -
Kaloudiana - Topolia - Elos - Kefali road and 63km from Chania and has tavernas
and rooms to rent. The view from the village is superb. The village of Kefali
contains the Byzantine church of Sotiras Christos with high quality frescoes.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
KERAMIES (Municipality) CHANIA
KISSAMOS (Town) CHANIA
In the middle of the gulf of Kissamos, on the north coast of Crete,
is Kastelli 43km from Chania. Kastelli has a good beach with hotels and tavernas
in front of the town. A central Starting Point for excursions with several tourists
facilities in Kissamos is Kastelli, the capital of Kissamos. Travellers may find
Kastelli an enjoyable base for exploring the area of Kissamos. You can reach many
places on day trips from Kastelli. Kastelli, was a harbour of ancient Polirinia.
It became a very important independent city during Roman times. During the summer
months archaeological work is in progress in Kastelli and you can see remains
of second and third century mosaic floors behind the Health Centre. Other areas
in the city have revealed various Roman remains such as baths, villas, and tombs
that show the existence of a major ancient city.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
The name Kissamos is of pre-hellenic origin and it was the name of an ancient community that existed in the same place. The ancient Kissamos was a marine and commercial center of the Western Crete, and it was the port of the ancient town of polyrenia. Later, when it was occupied by the Romans ,a new theater and Roman villas were built on top of the old town. The city continued to prosper during the early Byzantine period when it was an episcopical seat. The Venetians built the wall that parts of it are still standing inside the city. The Venetian fortress, Castelo, was the special characteristic of the city and thus the city was named after it Kasteli. Because in Crete there are many towns with the name Kasteli, it was named Kasteli Kissamou.
KOLYMBARI (Municipality) CHANIA
KOLYMBARI (Village) CHANIA
Kolimbari is a village 24km from Chania on the Chania - Kastelli road
at the end of the bay of Chania and the beginning of the cape (hersonisos) of
Spatha. It is a small place that can be used to reach the fertile land of the
surrounding area, the interesting landscape and beaches, the large number of important
churches and monasteries of the area and to reach the archaeological site of Diktinna.
Kolimbari also played an important role in recent historical events. The new highway
from Kolimbari to Kastelli allows for fast travel to the next bay, Kolpos Kissamou
and the town of Kastelli. Traces of Minoan settlements have been found in several
places near Kolimbari, but no systematic excavation has been done yet. The Turks
first landed on Crete here, in 1645, and started occupation of the island. The
Greek Army landed here in 1897 to achieve the union of Crete with Greece, and
this was the reason for the start of the war of 1897 between Greece and Turkey.
Kolimbari can be used as a starting point for the trips to Diktinna by boat (Kolimbari,
Ellinospilios, Diktinna) to the monastery of Agios Ioannis Gionis (Kolimbari,
Rodopou, Agios Ioannis Gionis) and to Nopigia.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains image.
There are traces of Minoan settlements found in several places near Kolybari, but no systematic Excavation has been done yet.
The Turks first landed on Crete here, in 1645, and started occupation of the island. The Greek Army landed here in 1897 to achieve Crete's union with Greece, and this was the reason for the start of the war in 1897 between Greece and Turkey.
Kolybari also has a large number of important churches and monasteries.
KOMITADES (Village) SFAKIA
Komitades is on the road east from Hora Sfakion towards Frangokastello.
It is about 4km from Hora Sfakion and 69km from Chania. It has two churches of
interest.
KOURNA LAKE (Lake) GEORGIOUPOLI
Lake Kournas is one of only two lakes in Crete and covers a total
area of about 160,000 square metres with a depth of up to 25 metres. The name
is derived from the Arabic word for lake. Dense vegetation surrounds the scenic
lake and the southeastern bank is lined with olive trees. A strip of white sand
beside the lake provides an area for swimming and cafes.
KOURNAS (Village) GEORGIOUPOLI
The old village of Kournas maintains aspects of traditional Cretan
village architecture and there are several Byzantine churches. The village is
43km from Chania and 20km from Rethimnon. Kournas Lake, old villages, Byzantine
churches, a Minoan tomb and a cave are in the area around the village. In Patima
(near Kournas) there is the church of Agios Theodoros which also has a fine, decorated
tomb within the church. In Patima there are also the remains of Venetian buildings.
This text is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
KOUTSOGERAKO (Settlement) ANATOLIKO SELINO
The village of Koustogerako is 73km from Chania. Koustogerako, 500
metres above sea level, is in a very wild, beautiful position. Deep gorges and
steep mountain cliffs surround the village. Southwest of the village at a height
of 200 metres is the cave of Cyclopa, possibly related to the epic poem Odyssey
in the story of the Cyclops. The cave is a long way from the village and difficult
to approach. Koustogerako itself has a dramatic history. It was burned twice by
the Venetians, and once in 1821 by the Turks. Finally, Koustogerako was razed
by the Nazis. The Germans had gathered the old men, women, and children of the
village and were about to execute them when shots killed the machine gunner. The
other soldiers ran away and the villagers escaped. The Nazis returned the next
day and destroyed the village.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
KYDONIA (Province) CHANIA
The beautiful Kydonia Plain (Pediada Kydonia) is to the southwest
and south of Chania. The plain of Kydonia extends from the northern beaches to
the foothills of the Lefka Ori. There are various roads that cross the plain of
Kydonia, winding through orange, lemon, and grapefruit orchards. This is one of
the richest growing areas in Crete. The orchards produce year round, but they
are most fruitful in the winter and spring.
This text is cited Oct 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
KYRIAKOSELIA (Settlement) ARMENI
Kyriakoselia is a village 31km from Chania on the road Chania - Megala
Horafia - Stylos - Samonas - Kyriakoselia. In the area of Kyriakoselia there are
the Byzantine churches of Agios Nikolaos and Agios Mamas as well as the Byzantine
fort of Kyriakoselia.
LAKKI (Village) MOUSSOURI
Laki is 24km southwest of Chania on the Chania - Fournes - Laki -
Omalos road. The view of the mountains and valleys are breathtaking. The road
starts the serious ascent to Omalos after Fournes. The scene of many rebellions
and battles against the Turks, the historic village of Laki, at 500 metres above
sea level, is worth a stop. Any one of the coffee shops or tavernas gives the
visitor a magnificent view of the valley below and the Lefka Ori.
This text is cited Nov 2002 from the Crete TOURnet URL below, which contains images.
Laki is a historic village where many rebellions and battles against the Turks took place. Further on the road to Omalos is a memorial plaque to World War II resistant fighters killed by the Germans. The New Zealander Dudley Perkins (Kiwi or Vasili) and his Cretan companion were ambushed near here on 28/2/1944.
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