Crete – Most Beautiful Island in Mediterranean Sea

Crete is the fifth largest island of Greece and the most enchanting island in Mediterranean Sea. Apart from natural beauty, the archaeological importance of the place has made it one of the popular European travel destinations and holiday spots.

History:
The first human settlement in Crete dates back to Neolithic period. It was the centre of Minoan, the oldest European civilization. In 69 BC, the island was captured by Rome. After this, the island was captured by people from Byzantine Empire and then by Venetians. Jews became the part of the island’s population in 1492. In 1669, the place was annexed by Ottomans from Giacomo Foscarini. This added a huge number of Muslim populations to the place. It was in the year 1913 that the island went to join Greece. The Battle of Crete during World War II is another important historical event of this place.  

Popular places:
The Archaeological Museum of Heraklion can be visited to view the ruins of Minoan civilization. Similar archaeological sites and museums can also be visited at Knossos and Phaistos. The Lasithi Plateau is another interesting place to visit, as it offers a cool environment due to altitude. One can find the Zeus Cave located on this Plateau as another attraction of Crete.

Vai beach can be visited to explore the wild palm trees in huge number. This sandy beach offers a great scenic beauty and a small cliff. Zakros Gorge, which is also known as the valley of dead for housing Neolithic tombs, is another place worth visiting, along with Samara, another gorge of the island.

Rethymno can be visited to view a huge fortress belonging to Venetians and a beautiful harbour. The monasteries of Akrotiri and Katholiko are other attractions of the island. A number of churches and chapels can also be visited.

Getting around:
Hiring a car is the most recommended way to get around the city. Public transport facilities in the form of bus service are also available the best way to guide yourself is to check the maps and timetables for the busese. One can also enjoy the ferry ride to explore various parts of the island.

Places of Entertainment:
Walking in the mountains is an interesting activity. One can relish Cretan Diet, which is recommended for its nutritional benefits. Cretan cheese, meat, sausages, and popular alcohol drink called Raki are the things that should not be missed. 

Accommodation Options:
Studios and apartments are the favourable accommodation options in Crete. One can also find holiday houses and villas for the same. Of course, one can choose a hotel to live according to his or her budget limits, not forgetting the budget accommodation options like youth hostels, bed and breakfast, guesthouse and motels.

Currency:
Like other Greek islands, Euro is the main currency of Crete that replaced the old currency Drachma in 2002. Currency exchange rate can be learnt from the hotel you stay in, the news or the internet. 

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