an unforgettable experience full of knowledge, inspiration and awe
journey to history and spirituality
Discover a true treasure of cultural and historical heritage, full of archaeological sites and religious monuments that highlight the grandeur and rich history of the island. In these areas, the visitor encounters imposing ruins from the Minoan era, early Christian monasteries, Byzantine churches and fortifications from the Venetian period, all of which together compose a living palimpsest of Cretan history. From the archaeological site of Phaistos, which was one of the most important centers of the Minoan civilization, to the caves where the first Christians practiced asceticism, and the small chapels scattered in isolated areas, every part of southern Crete bears witness to the cultural continuity and spiritual quest of the people who lived here. Visitors have the opportunity to visit attractions that cover all historical periods, from prehistory until modern times, and to feel the pulse of history through the silent monuments that have been preserved to this day. The villages of the region, with their authentic architecture and hospitable inhabitants, complete this unique experience, giving the traveler the opportunity to get to know the tradition and way of life of Crete, which seems to have remained untouched by time. Exploring southern Crete, beyond its historical routes, is also a journey into the spiritual and cultural wealth of the region.
a masterpiece of Minoan Civilization
Palace of Phaistos
Phaistos is an ancient city of Crete, which was one of the most important and flourishing centers of the Minoan civilization. It is located on the southern side of the island, near the sea, in the Messara region, and is one of the most characteristic archaeological sites of Crete. Phaistos developed during the Minoan civilization, around 2000 BC, and experienced its greatest prosperity during the Middle Minoan period (1900–1700 BC). The city was a commercial and cultural center, which had connections with other important areas of the Mediterranean. Phaistos had extensive palaces, which today constitute one of the most impressive archaeological sites in Crete. The main and best-known site of Phaistos is the Palace of Phaistos, which is larger and more impressive than the Palace of Knossos. Its architecture is characterized by elaborate corridors, halls, and courtyards that extend over a large area and reveal the sophisticated social and political structure of the era. The palace also contains important archaeological finds, such as the Phaistos Disc, one of the most enigmatic and famous archaeological treasures of Crete, which bears writing that remains indecipherable until today and is one of the greatest mysteries of archaeology. Phaistos, like other Minoan cities, was destroyed during a series of natural disasters and external attacks, resulting in its decline and eventual abandonment. Despite its destruction, the legacy of Phaistos remains alive through the archaeological finds and the impact it had on the history of Crete and the Aegean. Today, Phaistos is one of the most visited and important archaeological sites on Crete and attracts thousands of tourists and archaeologists from all over the world.
the great centre of Roman Crete
Archaeological site of Gortys
The archaeological site of Gortyna is located in southern Crete, in the Heraklion region, and is one of the most important archaeological sites on the island. Gortyna was one of the largest and most important cities of Crete during antiquity and flourished particularly during the Roman period. The site covers an extensive area and includes numerous archaeological finds that testify the rich history and culture of the city. Gortyna, according to archaeological excavations, was the capital of the Cretan state during the Roman period and experienced significant prosperity. The excavations have brought to light a rich set of buildings, sanctuaries, public and private buildings, roads, and inscriptions that highlight the social, political and economic life of the era. One of the most impressive findings of the site is the famous "Gortyna Inscription", a large inscription that records Roman law and is one of the most important legal inscriptions of antiquity. Among the attractions of the area, the Roman theater, built during the Roman period and capable of holding thousands of spectators, the large Dioikitirio and the colonnades around the market area, as well as the Byzantine churches that were built later, using older materials. The archaeological site of Gortyna is one of the most important tourist destinations in Crete for history and archaeology lovers, as it offers a unique opportunity to get to know the rich historical heritage of the island from antiquity to the Byzantine period.
the port of ancient Phaistos
Minoan palace of Kommos
The settlement of Kommos, on the southwestern coast of the Messara plain, developed around 1900 BC and served as a Minoan port until 1200 BC. Excavations have revealed the remains of buildings dating from the Neopalatial and Postpalatial periods, as well as shipsheds. Kommos was linked to civilizations such as Sardinia, Egypt, Cyprus and the Levant, while Phoenician and Egyptian artifacts, such as statues and weapons, have also been discovered. A Phoenician temple dates back to around 800 BC and was in use until 600 BC. The site was abandoned around 200 AD, and excavations began in 1976 with the support of international teams. The excavations revealed numerous finds, such as ceramics and household items, while a mural with white lilies was also discovered. Along the sand dunes of the beach, at the end of summer, white sand lilies bloom, creating an impressive and peaceful landscape.
the first place visited by the Apostle Paul in Crete
Asterousia the mountain of Saints
Monastery of Odigitria
The Monastery of Odigitria is located in the Asterousia Mountains of Crete and has significant historical and religious value. It was founded in the 14th century and is associated with the Kallergis family. It is mentioned in a document of 1393 and is home to a number of hermitages and small churches. The Monastery is honored with the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and the Holy Apostles Peter and Paul. The Monastery has a significant history during the national resistance, with particular activity during the Turkish and German occupation, offering refuge to the rebels. Τoday it hosts six monks. The Monastery remains a guardian of Orthodoxy and offers spiritual hospitality to the faithful.
Monastery of Koudoumas
The Koudouma Monastery in southern Crete, in the area of the Municipality of Phaistos, is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is one of the most important monastic centers of Crete. It is located in an isolated location, overlooking the sea, and is surrounded by steep hills and rocks, which gives it unique natural beauty and tranquility. The history of the Koudouma Monastery is lost in the depths of the centuries. Its foundation is placed around the 14th century, although the first references to the area and the monastery date back to the 12th century. The monastery has been associated with the Byzantine and Venetian periods, and was an important center of religious and cultural life. The architecture of the monastery follows the traditional type of cretan monasteries, with wall paintings dating from the 15th to the 17th centuries and praising scenes from the life of Christ and the Saints. Inside the monastery are remarkable ecclesiastical relics and books, while the presence of the miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, which is a pole of attraction for the faithful, is also important. The area around the monastery is extremely beautiful and offers a refuge for visitors who wish to experience the tranquility and sense of isolation, but also for those who want to explore the natural landscapes and beaches of southern Crete. The approach to the monastery requires a few hours of driving from the largest urban centers of the island, which makes it a quiet and remote destination. Koudouma Monastery is, in addition to a religious center, a point of reference for the rich history and tradition of Crete, while its tranquility and natural beauty make it a place that encourages reflection and connection with the spiritual.
Cave Church of the Virgin Mary in Matala
In one of the most famous tourist destinations on Crete, in Matala, stands the impressive Cave Church of the Virgin Mary, a unique monument that combines the natural beauty of the landscape with historical and religious value. The church, built into the rock, extends over an impressive area and welcomes the visitor with respect, inviting him to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere of this sacred space, before entering its interior. The location of the church, with its characteristic cave and narrow passage, was particularly important for the early Christians, who used the space as a refuge during the period of persecution. As a catacomb, it offered protection and isolation, while at the same time being a place of worship and prayer. The church, built in absolute harmony with the natural environment, still maintains today the seriousness and serenity it radiates, while impressing with its two marble iconostasis and capitals which are the remains of an earlier Byzantine church, which existed in the area during the early Byzantine period. These architectural elements, with their exquisite details, reveal the rich history and cultural heritage of Crete, connecting the past with the present.