# Crete

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This article is about the Greek island. For other uses, see [Crete (disambiguation)](/source/Crete_(disambiguation)).

"Creta" redirects here. For the car, see [Hyundai Creta](/source/Hyundai_Creta).

**Crete** (/kɹiːt/ KREET; Greek: Κρήτη, [Modern](/source/Modern_Greek): *Kríti* ˈkriti, [Ancient](/source/Ancient_Greek): *Krḗtē* krɛ̌ːtεː) is the largest and most populous [island](/source/Greek_islands) of [Greece](/source/Greece), the [89th](/source/List_of_islands_by_area) largest island in the world, and the [fifth largest island](/source/List_of_islands_in_the_Mediterranean#By_area) in the [Mediterranean Sea](/source/Mediterranean_Sea), after [Sicily](/source/Sicily), [Sardinia](/source/Sardinia), [Cyprus](/source/Cyprus_(island)), and [Corsica](/source/Corsica). Crete is located approximately 100 km (62 mi) south of the [Peloponnese](/source/Peloponnese), and about 300 km (190 mi) southwest of [Anatolia](/source/Anatolia). Crete has an area of 8,450 km2 (3,260 sq mi) and a coastline of 1,046 km (650 mi). It bounds the southern border of the [Aegean Sea](/source/Aegean_Sea), with the [Sea of Crete](/source/Sea_of_Crete) (or North Cretan Sea) to the north and the [Libyan Sea](/source/Libyan_Sea) (or South Cretan Sea) to the south. Crete covers 260 km from west to east but is narrow from north to south, spanning three degrees of longitude but only half a degree of latitude.

Crete and its surrounding islands and islets form the Region of Crete (Greek: Περιφέρεια Κρήτης), which is the southernmost of the 13 [top-level administrative units of Greece](/source/Modern_regions_of_Greece), and the fifth most populous of Greece's regions. Its capital and largest city is [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion), located on the island's north shore. As of 2021, the region had a population of 624,408.[3] The [Dodecanese](/source/Dodecanese) are located to the northeast of Crete, while the [Cyclades](/source/Cyclades) are situated to the north, separated by the [Sea of Crete](/source/Sea_of_Crete).

Crete was the center of [Europe](/source/Europe)'s first advanced civilization, the [Minoans](/source/Minoan_civilization), from 2700 to 1420 BC. The Minoan civilization was overrun by the [Mycenaean civilization](/source/Mycenaean_Greece) from mainland Greece. Crete was subsequently ruled by [Rome](/source/Roman_Empire), by the [Byzantine Empire](/source/Byzantine_Empire), briefly by [Andalusian](/source/Al-Andalus) Arabs, restored to Byzantine rule, and later by the [Venetian Republic](/source/Republic_of_Venice) and the [Ottoman Empire](/source/Ottoman_Empire). In 1898 Crete, whose people had for some time wanted to join the Greek state, achieved autonomy under the Ottomans, formally becoming the [Cretan State](/source/Cretan_State). Crete became part of Greece in December 1913.

Crete is predominantly mountainous, characterized by a range that crosses the island from west to east. It includes Crete's highest point, [Mount Ida](/source/Mount_Ida_(Crete)), and the range of the [White Mountains](/source/Lefka_Ori) (Lefka Ori) with 30 summits above 2,000 metres (6,600 ft) in altitude and the [Samaria Gorge](/source/Samaria_Gorge), a [World Biosphere Reserve](/source/World_Biosphere_Reserve). Crete forms a significant part of the economy and cultural heritage of Greece, while retaining its own local cultural traits (such as its own [poetry](/source/Mantinada) and [music](/source/Cretan_music)). The [Nikos Kazantzakis airport](/source/Heraklion_International_Airport,_%22Nikos_Kazantzakis%22) at Heraklion and the [Daskalogiannis airport](/source/Chania_International_Airport) at [Chania](/source/Chania) serve international travelers. The [Minoan palace](/source/Minoan_palace) at [Knossos](/source/Knossos) is also located in Heraklion.[4] In Greek mythology, Crete is best known as the birthplace of the Greek god Zeus.

## Name

The earliest references to the island of Crete come from texts from the [Syrian](/source/Syria) city of [Mari](/source/Mari,_Syria) dating from the [18th century](/source/18th_century_BC) BC, where the island is referred to as *Kaptara*.[5] This is repeated later in [Neo-Assyrian](/source/Neo-Assyrian) records and the [Bible](/source/Bible) (*[Caphtor](/source/Caphtor)*). It was known in ancient [Egyptian](/source/Egyptian_language) as *Keftiu* or *kftı͗w*, strongly suggesting a similar [Minoan](/source/Minoan_language) name for the island.[6]

The current name *Crete* is first attested in the 15th century BC in [Mycenaean Greek](/source/Mycenaean_Greek) texts, written in [Linear B](/source/Linear_B), through the words *ke-re-te* *𐀐𐀩𐀳*, **Krētes*; later Greek: Κρῆτες krɛː.tes, plural of Κρής krɛːs)[7] and *ke-re-si-jo* *𐀐𐀩𐀯𐀍*, **Krēsijos*; later Greek: Κρήσιος krέːsios,[8] 'Cretian').[9][10] In [Ancient Greek](/source/Ancient_Greek), the name Crete (Κρήτη) first appears in [Homer](/source/Homer)'s *[Odyssey](/source/Odyssey)*.[11] Its etymology is unknown. One proposal derives it from a hypothetical [Luwian](/source/Luwian_language) word **kursatta* (compare *kursawar* 'island', *kursattar* 'cutting, sliver').[12] Another proposal suggests that it derives from the [ancient Greek](/source/Ancient_Greek) word *"κραταιή" (krataie̅)*, meaning strong or powerful, the reasoning being that Crete was the strongest [thalassocracy](/source/Thalassocracy) during ancient times.[13][14]

In [Latin](/source/Classical_Latin), the name of the island became *Creta*. The original Arabic name of Crete was *Iqrīṭiš* (Arabic: اقريطش < (τῆς) Κρήτης), but after the [Emirate of Crete](/source/Emirate_of_Crete)'s establishment of its new capital at ربض الخندق *Rabḍ al-Ḫandaq* (modern [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion); Greek: Ηράκλειο, *Irákleio*), both the city and the island became known as Χάνδαξ (*Chandax*) or Χάνδακας (*Chandakas*), which gave Latin, Italian, and Venetian *Candia*, from which were derived French *Candie* and English *Candy* or *Candia*. Under [Ottoman rule](/source/Ottoman_Empire), in [Ottoman Turkish](/source/Ottoman_Turkish), Crete was called *Girit* (كريد). In the Hebrew Bible, Crete is referred to as (כְּרֵתִים) "kretim".

## Physical geography and climate

Main article: [Geography of Greece](/source/Geography_of_Greece)

Crete is the largest island in Greece and the fifth largest island in the [Mediterranean Sea](/source/Mediterranean_Sea). It is located south of almost the rest of the country, in the southern part of the [Aegean Sea](/source/Aegean_Sea) separating the Aegean from the [Libyan Sea](/source/Libyan_Sea).

### Island morphology

The island has an elongated shape: it spans 260 km (160 mi) from east to west, is 60 km (37 mi) at its widest point, and narrows to as little as 12 km (7.5 mi) (close to [Ierapetra](/source/Ierapetra)). Crete covers an area of 8,336 km2 (3,219 sq mi), with a coastline of 1,046 km (650 mi); to the north, it broaches the [Sea of Crete](/source/Sea_of_Crete) (Greek: Κρητικό Πέλαγος); to the south, the [Libyan Sea](/source/Libyan_Sea) (Greek: Λιβυκό Πέλαγος); in the west, the [Myrtoan Sea](/source/Myrtoan_Sea), and toward the east the Carpathian Sea. It lies approximately 160 km (99 mi) south of the Greek mainland.

There are a number of peninsulas and gulfs on the north side of Crete, from west to east these include: [Gramvousa](/source/Gramvousa_Peninsula) peninsula, gulf of Kissamos, Rodopos peninsula, [gulf of Chania](/source/Gulf_of_Chania), [Akrotiri](/source/Akrotiri,_Crete) peninsula, [Souda Bay](/source/Souda_Bay), Apokoronas cape, gulf of [Almiros](/source/Almyros), gulf of [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion), Aforesmenos cape, gulf of [Mirabello](/source/Mirabello_Bay), gulf of [Sitia](/source/Sitia) and the [Sideros](/source/Cape_Sideros) peninsula. On the south side of Crete is the gulf of [Messaras](/source/Messara_Plain) and [Cape Lithinon](/source/Cape_Lithinon).

### Mountains and valleys

Crete is mountainous, and its character is defined by a high mountain range crossing from west to east, formed by six different groups of mountains:

- The Idi Range ([Psiloritis](/source/Psiloritis)) 2,456 m (8,058 ft)
- The White Mountains or [Lefka Ori](/source/Lefka_Ori) 2,453 m (8,048 ft)
- The [Dikti Mountains](/source/Dikti) 2,148 m (7,047 ft)
- [Kedros](/source/Mount_Kedros) 1,777 m (5,830 ft)
- [Thrypti](/source/Thrypti) 1,489 m (4,885 ft)
- [Asterousia Mountains](/source/Asterousia_Mountains) 1,231 m (4,039 ft)

These mountains lavish Crete with valleys, such as [Amari valley](/source/Amari_Valley), fertile plateaus, such as [Lasithi plateau](/source/Lasithi_Plateau), [Omalos](/source/Omalos) and [Nidha](/source/Nidha); caves, such as [Gourgouthakas](/source/Gourgouthakas), [Diktaion](/source/Diktaion), and [Idaion](/source/Idaion) (the birthplace of the ancient Greek god [Zeus](/source/Zeus)); and a number of gorges.

The mountains have been seen as a key feature of the island's distinctiveness, especially since the time of Romantic travellers' writing. Contemporary Cretans distinguish between highlanders and lowlanders; the former often claim to reside in places affording a higher/better climatic and moral environment. In keeping with the legacy of Romantic authors, the mountains are seen as having determined their residents' 'resistance' to past invaders which relates to the oft-encountered idea that highlanders are 'purer' in terms of less intermarriages with occupiers.

For residents of mountainous areas, such as [Sfakia](/source/Sfakians) in western Crete, the aridness and rockiness of the mountains is emphasised as an element of pride and is often compared to the alleged soft-soiled mountains of others parts of Greece or the world.[15]

### Gorges, rivers and lakes

The island has a number of gorges, such as the [Samariá Gorge](/source/Samari%C3%A1_Gorge), [Imbros Gorge](/source/Imbros_Gorge), [Kourtaliotiko Gorge](/source/Kourtaliotiko_Gorge), [Ha Gorge](/source/Ha_Gorge), [Platania Gorge](/source/Platania_Gorge), the Gorge of the Dead (at [Kato Zakros](/source/Kato_Zakros), [Sitia](/source/Sitia)) and [Richtis Gorge](/source/Richtis_Gorge) and (Richtis) waterfall at Exo Mouliana in [Sitia](/source/Sitia).[16][17][18][19]

The rivers of Crete include the [Geropotamos River](/source/Ieropotamos_River), the Koiliaris, the Anapodiaris, the Almiros, the Giofyros, the Keritis, and Megas Potamos. There are only two freshwater lakes in Crete: [Lake Kournas](/source/Lake_Kournas) and [Lake Agia](/source/Lake_Agia), which are both in [Chania regional unit](/source/Chania_(regional_unit)).[20] [Lake Voulismeni](/source/Lake_Voulismeni) at the coast, at Aghios Nikolaos, was formerly a freshwater lake but is now connected to the sea, in [Lasithi](/source/Lasithi).[21] Three artificial lakes created by dams also exist in Crete: the lake of [Aposelemis Dam](/source/Aposelemis_Dam), the lake of Potamos Dam, and the lake of Mpramiana Dam.

### Surrounding islands

Main article: [List of Greek islands#Cretan islands](/source/List_of_Greek_islands#Cretan_islands)

A large number of islands, [islets](/source/Islet), and rocks hug the coast of Crete. Many are visited by tourists, some are only visited by [archaeologists](/source/Archaeology) and [biologists](/source/Biologist). Some are [environmentally protected](/source/Environmental_protection). A small sample of the islands includes:

- [Gramvousa](/source/Gramvousa) ([Kissamos](/source/Kissamos), Chania) the pirate island opposite the Balo lagoon
- [Elafonisi](/source/Elafonisi) (Chania), which commemorates a shipwreck and an Ottoman massacre
- [Chrysi](/source/Chrysi_(island)) island ([Ierapetra](/source/Ierapetra), [Lasithi](/source/Lasithi)), which hosts the largest natural *[Juniperus macrocarpa](/source/Juniperus_macrocarpa)* forest in Europe
- [Paximadia](/source/Paximadia) island (Agia Galini, [Rethymno](/source/Rethymno)) where the god Apollo and the goddess Artemis were traditionally believed to be born
- The Venetian fort and leper colony at [Spinalonga](/source/Spinalonga) opposite the beach and shallow waters of [Elounda](/source/Elounda) ([Agios Nikolaos](/source/Agios_Nikolaos,_Crete), Lasithi)
- [Dionysades](/source/Dionysades) islands which are in an environmentally protected region together with the Palm Beach Forest of [Vai](/source/Vai_(Crete)) in the municipality of [Sitia](/source/Sitia), Lasithi

Off the south coast, the island of [Gavdos](/source/Gavdos) is located 26 nautical miles (48 km) south of [Hora Sfakion](/source/Hora_Sfakion) and is the [southernmost](/source/Extreme_points_of_Europe) point of [Europe](/source/Europe).

### Climate

Main article: [Climate of Greece](/source/Climate_of_Greece)

Crete straddles two climatic zones, the [Mediterranean](/source/Mediterranean_climate) and the [semi-arid climate](/source/Semi-arid_climate), mainly falling within the former. As such, the climate in Crete is primarily a [hot-summer Mediterranean](/source/Hot-summer_mediterranean) (*Csa*) climate while some areas in the south and east have a [hot semi-arid climate](/source/Hot_semi-arid_climate) ([Köppen climate classification](/source/K%C3%B6ppen_climate_classification): *BSh*). The higher elevations fall into the cold-summer [Mediterranean climate](/source/Mediterranean_climate) category (*Csc*),[22] while some of the mountain peaks (>2,000 meters) may feature a [continental climate](/source/Continental_climate) (*Dfb* or *Dfc*). The atmosphere can be quite humid, depending on the proximity to the sea, while winter is fairly mild. Snowfall is common on the mountains between November and April, but rare in most low-lying areas.

The south coast, including the [Mesara Plain](/source/Mesara_Plain) and [Asterousia Mountains](/source/Asterousia_Mountains) enjoy significantly more sunny days and, on average, higher temperatures throughout the year. There, [date palms](/source/Date_palm) bear fruit, and [swallows](/source/Swallow_(bird)) remain year-round. The fertile region around [Ierapetra](/source/Ierapetra), on the southeastern corner of the island, has year-round agricultural production, with summer vegetable and fruit produced in [greenhouses](/source/Greenhouse) throughout the year.[23] Western Crete (Chania province) receives more rain and the soil there suffers more erosion compared to the Eastern part of Crete.[24]

Average annual temperatures reach up to 22.0 °C in [Tris Ekklisies](/source/Tris_Ekklisies) and [Psari Forada](/source/Psari_Forada) which are located in South Crete. Crete holds the record for the highest temperatures ever recorded in [Europe](/source/Europe) during October, November, January and February among [W.M.O.](/source/W.M.O.) stations.[25] [26][27][28][29][30] According to the [Hellenic National Meteorological Service](/source/Hellenic_National_Meteorological_Service), South Crete receives the most sunshine in [Greece](/source/Greece) with more than 3,257 hours of sunshine per year.[31]

## Human geography

Crete is the most populous island in Greece, with a population of over 600,000. Approximately 42% of residents live in the island's main cities and towns, while 45% reside in rural areas.[32]

### Administration

Crete with its nearby islands form the **Crete Region** (Greek: Περιφέρεια Κρήτης, *Periféria Krítis*, periˈferia ˈkritis), one of the 13 [regions of Greece](/source/Modern_regions_of_Greece) which were established in the 1987 administrative reform.[33] Under the 2010 [Kallikratis plan](/source/Kallikratis_plan), the powers and authority of the regions were redefined and extended. The region is based at [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion) and is divided into four [regional units](/source/Regional_units_of_Greece) (pre-Kallikratis [prefectures](/source/Prefectures_of_Greece)). From west to east these are: [Chania](/source/Chania_(regional_unit)), [Rethymno](/source/Rethymno_(regional_unit)), [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion_(regional_unit)), and [Lasithi](/source/Lasithi). These are further subdivided into 24 [municipalities](/source/Municipalities_of_Greece).

Since 1 January 2011, the regional governor is [Stavros Arnaoutakis](/source/Stavros_Arnaoutakis) of the [Panhellenic Socialist Movement](/source/PASOK). First elected in [2010](/source/2010_Greek_local_elections), he was re-elected in [2014](/source/2014_Greek_local_elections), [2019](/source/2019_Greek_local_elections) and [2023](/source/2023_Crete_regional_election).

### Cities

Main article: [Cities of Greece](/source/Cities_of_Greece)

[Heraklion](/source/Heraklion) is the largest city and capital of Crete, holding more than a fourth of the island's population. [Chania](/source/Chania) was the capital until 1971. The principal cities are:

- [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion) (*Iraklion* or *Candia*) (144,422 inhabitants)[34]
- [Chania](/source/Chania) (*Haniá*) (88,525 inhabitants)[34]
- [Rethymno](/source/Rethymno) (34,300 inhabitants)[34]
- [Ierapetra](/source/Ierapetra) (23,707 inhabitants)
- [Agios Nikolaos](/source/Agios_Nikolaos,_Crete) (20,679 inhabitants)
- [Sitia](/source/Sitia) (14,338 inhabitants)

### Demographics

According to official census data by the [Hellenic Statistical Authority](/source/Hellenic_Statistical_Authority), the region's population has increased by 1,343 people between 2011 and 2021, experiencing a rise of 0.22%.[35] The island is home to 308,608 men and 315,800 women, accounting for 49.4% and 50.6% of the population respectively.

Population of Crete according to ELSTAT Crete 1981 1991 2001 2011 2021 Population 502,165 540,054 601,131 623,065 624,408 Change --- --- --- +7.27% +10.7% +3.58% +0.22%

The island is divided into four regional units, Heraklion, Rethymno, Chania, and Lasithi.

Cretan regional units by population according to ELSTAT Regional Unit Population (2021) Change between 2011 and 2021 (%) Heraklion 305,017 -0.2% Lasithi 77,819 +3.2% Rethymno 84,866 -0.9% Chania 156,706 +0.1%

#### Vital statistics

Vital statistics of Crete according to ELSTAT Average population (January 1, 1991 onwards) Live births Deaths Natural change Crude birth rate (per 1000) Crude death rate (per 1000) Natural change (per 1000) Total Fertility Rates[36] 1981 501,909 7,471 4,591 2,880 14.9 9.2 5.7 1982 505,705 7,499 4,419 3,080 14.8 8.7 6.1 1983 509,133 7,217 4,849 2,368 14.2 9.5 4.7 1984 512,169 7,097 4,617 2,480 13.9 9.0 4.9 1985 514,669 6,356 4,754 1,602 12.4 9.2 3.2 1986 517,457 6,356 4,726 1,630 12.3 9.1 3.2 1987 520,470 6,285 4,927 1,358 12.1 9.5 2.6 1988 523,904 6,356 4,953 1,403 12.1 9.5 2.6 1989 529,474 5,939 4,842 1,097 11.2 9.2 2.0 1990 535,367 6,173 4,839 1,334 11.5 9.0 2.5 1991 538,470 6,225 4,850 1,375 11.6 9.0 2.6 1992 543,879 6,192 5,211 981 11.4 9.6 1.8 1993 547,999 5,935 5,090 845 10.8 9.3 1.5 1994 552,109 6,171 5,087 1,084 11.2 9.2 2.0 1995 556,202 5,943 5,285 658 10.7 9.4 1.3 1996 560,402 6,099 5,216 883 10.9 9.3 1.6 1997 564,357 6,119 5,327 792 10.8 9.4 1.4 1998 568,932 5,979 5,267 712 10.5 9.3 1.2 1999 572,535 6,061 5,355 706 10.6 9.4 1.2 2000 575,599 6,324 5,514 810 11.0 9.6 1.4 2001 579,672 6,567 5,346 1,221 11.3 9.2 1.9 2002 589,844 6,472 5,481 991 11.0 9.3 1.7 2003 593,143 6,685 5,609 1,076 11.3 9.5 1.8 2004 596,426 6,878 5,324 1,554 11.5 8.9 2.6 2005 600,490 6,901 5,529 1,372 11.5 9.2 2.3 2006 604,682 7,399 5,633 1,766 12.2 9.3 2.9 2007 608,988 7,500 5,746 1,754 12.3 9.4 2.9 2008 613,144 8,009 5,560 2,449 13.1 9.1 4.0 2009 618,317 7,939 5,434 2,505 12.8 8.8 4.0 2010 623,113 7,693 5,573 2,120 12.4 8.9 3.5 2011 627,144 6,946 5,692 1,254 11.1 9.1 2.0 2012 628,498 6,923 5,881 1,042 11.0 9.4 1.6 2013 628,388 6,339 5,580 759 10.1 8.9 1.2 1.42 2014 628,377 6,359 5,792 567 10.1 9.2 0.9 1.44 2015 628,178 6,370 6,161 209 10.1 9.8 0.3 1.47 2016 627,576 6,619 5,962 657 10.6 9.5 1.1 1.55 2017 627,362 6,251 6,394 -143 10.0 10.2 -0.2 1.49 2018 627,027 6,241 5,985 256 10.0 9.6 0.4 1.52 2019 627,119 6,266 6,418 -152 10.0 10.2 -0.2 1.54 2020 627,163 6,199 6,365 -166 9.9 10.2 -0.3 1.56 2021 625,872 6,530 6,971 -441 10.4 11.1 -0.7 1.73 2022 623,900 5,772 7,046 -1,274 9.3 11.3 -2.0 1.62 2023 622,246 5,500 6,673 -1,173 8.8 10.7 -1.9 1.57 2024 621,442 5,174 6,605 -1,431 8.3 10.6 -2.3 1.51 2025 621,121

### Economy

Further information: [Economy of Greece](/source/Economy_of_Greece)

The economy of Crete is predominantly based on services and tourism. However, agriculture also plays an important role and Crete is one of the few Greek islands that can support itself without a tourism industry.[37] The economy began to change visibly during the 1970s as tourism gained in importance. Although an emphasis remains on agriculture and stock breeding, because of the climate and terrain of the island, there has been a drop in manufacturing, and an observable expansion in its service industries (mainly tourism-related). All three sectors of the Cretan economy (agriculture/farming, processing-packaging, services), are directly connected and interdependent. The island has a per capita income much higher than the Greek average, whereas unemployment is at approximately 4%, one-sixth of that of the country overall.[citation needed][when?]

As in many regions of Greece, [viticulture](/source/Viticulture) and [olive](/source/Olive) groves are significant; [oranges](/source/Orange_(fruit)), [citrons](/source/Greek_citron), [avocadoes](/source/Avocado) and [bananas](/source/Banana)[38] are also cultivated. Dairy products are important to the local economy and there are a number of specialty cheeses such as [mizithra](/source/Mizithra), [anthotyros](/source/Anthotyros), and [kefalotyri](/source/Kefalotyri). 20% of Greek wine is produced in Crete, mostly in the region of Peza.[39]

The [Gross domestic product](/source/Gross_domestic_product) (GDP) of the region was €9.4 billion in 2018, accounting for 5.1% of Greek economic output. GDP per capita adjusted for purchasing power was €17,800 or 59% of the EU27 average in the same year. The GDP per employee was 68% of the EU average. Crete is the region in Greece with the fifth highest GDP per capita.[40]

### Transport infrastructure

See also: [Transportation in Crete](/source/Transportation_in_Crete)

#### Airports

The island has three significant airports, [Nikos Kazantzakis](/source/Heraklion_International_Airport,_%22Nikos_Kazantzakis%22) at Heraklion, the [Daskalogiannis](/source/Chania_International_Airport) airport at Chania and the smaller [Sitia](/source/Sitia_Public_Airport) airport. The first two serve international routes, acting as the main gateways to the island for travellers. Nikos Kazantzakis was Greece’s second-busiest airport through the year of 2024.[41] Work has begun plan to replace Heraklion airport with a new airport at [Kasteli](/source/Kasteli_Airport), where there is presently an air force base, and the new Kasteli Airport is due to open by 2027.

#### Ferries

The island is well served by ferries, mostly from [Piraeus](/source/Port_of_Piraeus), by ferry companies such as [Minoan Lines](/source/Minoan_Lines) and [ANEK Lines](/source/ANEK_Lines) with links to the [Cyclades](/source/Cyclades) and [Dodecanese](/source/Dodecanese) islands. [Seajets](/source/Seajets) also operates routes to [Cyclades](/source/Cyclades).

The main ports from west to east are at [Kissamos](/source/Kissamos) (ferry link to Peloponnese), [Souda](/source/Souda) (Chania), [Rethymno](/source/Rethymno), [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion) (links to Cyclades), [Agios Nikolaos](/source/Agios_Nikolaos,_Crete) and [Sitia](/source/Sitia) (link to Dodecanese).

#### Road network

Most of Crete is served by the road network. A modern highway is currently being upgraded along the north coast connecting the four major cities ([A90 motorway](/source/A90_motorway_(Greece))), the sections bypassing the main cities (Heraklion to Malia, Rethymno, Chania to Kolymvari) are at motorway standard, while the sections in between, and west to Kissamos and east to Sitia, should be completed by 2028. A link will also connect to the new [Kasteli international airport](/source/Kasteli_Airport) .[42]

In addition, a [European Union](/source/European_Union) study has been devised to promote a modern highway to connect the northern and southern parts of the island via a [tunnel](/source/Tunnel). The study proposal includes a 15.7 km (9.8 mi) section of road between the villages of Agia Varvara and Agia Deka in central Crete. The new road section forms part of the route between [Messara](/source/Messara_Plain) in the south and Crete's largest city [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion), which houses the island's biggest airport and ferry links with mainland [Greece](/source/Greece).

#### Railway

Also, during the 1930s there was a narrow-gauge industrial railway in Heraklion, from Giofyros in the west side of the city to the port. There are now no railway lines on Crete. The government is planning the construction of a line from Chania to Heraklion via Rethymno.[43][44]

### Development

The construction sector in Crete responded well during the pandemic and has come out strong in the post-recession recovery period. Total construction spending recovered and is expected to peak a record high (approximately 8% higher than 2019 average levels) signalling consistent expansion in construction projects and real estate investments in Crete.[45] The evolution of the private sector in Crete is tightly linked with the demand for tourism-related investments. Moreover, the recovery of the tourism sector is expected to lead to further growth in housing prices and rental demand.

Newspapers have reported that the Ministry of Mercantile Marine is ready to support the agreement between Greece, [South Korea](/source/South_Korea), [Dubai Ports World](/source/Dubai_Ports_World) and [China](/source/China) for the construction of a large international [container](/source/Container_(cargo)) port and [free trade zone](/source/Free_trade_zone) in southern Crete near [Tympaki](/source/Tympaki); the plan is to expropriate 850 ha (2,100 acres) of land. The port would handle two million containers per year, but the project has not been universally welcomed because of its environmental, economic and cultural impact.[46] As of January 2013, the project has still not been confirmed, although there is mounting pressure to approve it, arising from Greece's difficult economic situation.

There are plans for underwater cables going from mainland Greece to Israel and Egypt passing by Crete and Cyprus: [EuroAfrica Interconnector](/source/EuroAfrica_Interconnector) and [EuroAsia Interconnector](/source/EuroAsia_Interconnector).[47][48] They would connect Crete electrically with mainland Greece, ending energy isolation of Crete. At present Greece covers electricity cost differences for Crete of around €300 million per year.[49]

## History

Main article: [History of Crete](/source/History_of_Crete)

In the later Neolithic and Bronze Age periods, under the Minoans, Crete had a highly developed, literate civilization. It has been ruled by various ancient Greek entities, the [Roman Empire](/source/Roman_Empire), the [Byzantine Empire](/source/Byzantine_Empire), the [Emirate of Crete](/source/Emirate_of_Crete), the [Republic of Venice](/source/Republic_of_Venice) and the [Ottoman Empire](/source/Ottoman_Empire). After a brief period of independence (1897–1913) under a provisional Cretan government, it joined the Kingdom of Greece. It was occupied by [Nazi Germany](/source/Nazi_Germany) during the [Second World War](/source/Second_World_War).

### Prehistory

Main article: [Prehistoric Crete](/source/Prehistoric_Crete)

Stone tools suggest that [archaic humans](/source/Archaic_humans) may have visited Crete as early as 130,000 years ago, but there is no evidence of permanent settlement of the island until the [Neolithic](/source/Neolithic), around 7,000 BCE.[50] Settlements dating to the [aceramic](/source/Aceramic) Neolithic in the 7th millennium BC, used [cattle](/source/Cattle), [sheep](/source/Domestic_sheep), [goats](/source/Domestic_goat), [pigs](/source/Pig) and [dogs](/source/Dog) as well as domesticated [cereals](/source/Cereal) and [legumes](/source/Legume); ancient [Knossos](/source/Knossos) was the site of one of these major Neolithic (then later Minoan) sites.[51] Other neolithic settlements include those at [Kephala](/source/Kephala), [Magasa](/source/Magasa,_Crete), [Trapeza](/source/Trapeza,_Crete) and [Gortyn](/source/Gortyn).

### Minoan civilization

Main article: [Minoan civilization](/source/Minoan_civilization)

During the [Bronze Age](/source/Bronze_Age), Crete was the centre of the [Minoan civilization](/source/Minoan_culture), notable for its [art](/source/Minoan_art), its writing systems such as [Linear A](/source/Linear_A), and for its massive building complexes including the palace at [Knossos](/source/Knossos). Its economy benefited from a network of trade around much of the [Mediterranean](/source/Mediterranean), and Minoan cultural influence extended to [Cyprus](/source/Cyprus), [Canaan](/source/Canaan), and [Egypt](/source/Egypt).

### Mycenaean civilization

Main article: [Mycenaean Greece](/source/Mycenaean_Greece)

In 1420 BC, the Minoan civilization was subsumed by the [Mycenaean civilization](/source/Mycenaean_Greece) from mainland Greece. The oldest samples of writing in the Greek language, as identified by [Michael Ventris](/source/Michael_Ventris), is the Linear B archive from Knossos, dated approximately to 1425–1375 BC.[52]

### Archaic and Classical period

See also: [Doric Greek#Cretan](/source/Doric_Greek#Cretan)

After the [Bronze Age collapse](/source/Bronze_Age_collapse), Crete was settled by new waves of Greeks, mainly [Dorians](/source/Dorians), from the mainland. A number of city states developed in the [Archaic period](/source/Archaic_Greece). There was limited contact with mainland Greece, and [Greek historiography](/source/Greek_historiography) shows little interest in Crete, so there are few literary references about the island or its people. [Cretan archers](/source/Cretan_archers) were known for their skill and were employed as mercenaries in the armies of [ancient Greece](/source/Ancient_Greece), including the army of [Alexander the Great](/source/Alexander_the_Great).

During the 6th to 4th centuries BC, Crete was comparatively free from warfare. The [Gortyn code](/source/Gortyn_code) (5th century BC) is evidence for how codified [civil law](/source/Civil_law_(legal_system)) established a balance between aristocratic power and civil rights. In the late 4th century BC, the aristocratic order began to collapse due to endemic infighting among the elite, and Crete's economy was weakened by prolonged wars between city states.

### Hellenistic period

During the 3rd century BC, [Gortyn](/source/Gortyn), Kydonia ([Chania](/source/Chania)), [Lyttos](/source/Lyctus) and [Polyrrhenia](/source/Polyrrhenia) challenged the primacy of ancient Knossos. While the cities continued to prey upon one another, they invited into their feuds mainland powers like [Macedon](/source/Macedon) and its rivals [Rhodes](/source/Rhodes) and [Ptolemaic Egypt](/source/Ptolemaic_Egypt). In 220 BC the island was tormented by a [war between two opposing coalitions of cities](/source/Lyttian_War). As a result, the Macedonian king [Philip V](/source/Philip_V_of_Macedon) gained [hegemony](/source/Hegemony) over Crete which lasted to the end of the [Cretan War (205–200 BC)](/source/Cretan_War_(205%E2%80%93200_BC)), when the [Rhodians](/source/Rhodes) opposed the rise of Macedon and the [Romans](/source/Roman_Republic) started to interfere in Cretan affairs. In the 2nd century BC Ierapytna ([Ierapetra](/source/Ierapetra)) gained supremacy on eastern Crete.

### Roman rule

Main article: [Crete and Cyrenaica](/source/Crete_and_Cyrenaica)

Crete was involved in the [Mithridatic Wars](/source/Mithridatic_Wars), initially repelling an attack by Roman general [Marcus Antonius Creticus](/source/Marcus_Antonius_Creticus) in 71 BC. Nevertheless, a ferocious three-year campaign soon followed under [Quintus Caecilius Metellus](/source/Quintus_Caecilius_Metellus_Creticus_(died_55_BC)), equipped with three legions. Crete was conquered by Rome in 69 BC, earning for Metellus the title "*Creticus*". [Gortyn](/source/Gortyn) was made capital of the island, and Crete became a Roman province, along with [Cyrenaica](/source/Cyrenaica) that was called [Creta et Cyrenaica](/source/Creta_et_Cyrenaica). Archaeological remains suggest that Crete under Roman rule witnessed prosperity and increased connectivity with other parts of the Empire.[53] In the 2nd century AD, at least three cities in Crete (Lyttos, Gortyn, Hierapytna) joined the [Panhellenion](/source/Panhellenion), a league of Greek cities founded by the emperor [Hadrian](/source/Hadrian). When [Diocletian](/source/Diocletian) redivided the Empire, Crete was placed, along with Cyrene, under the [diocese of Moesia](/source/Diocese_of_Moesia), and later by [Constantine I](/source/Constantine_I) to the [diocese of Macedonia](/source/Diocese_of_Macedonia).

### Byzantine Empire – first period

Main article: [Byzantine Crete](/source/Byzantine_Crete)

Crete was separated from Cyrenaica c. 297. It remained a province within the eastern half of the Roman Empire, usually referred to as the Eastern Roman (Byzantine) Empire after the establishment of a second capital in Constantinople by Constantine in 330. Crete was subjected to an attack by [Vandals](/source/Vandals) in 467, the great earthquakes of [365](/source/365_Crete_earthquake) and 415, a raid by [Slavs](/source/Slavs) in 623, Arab raids in 654 and the 670s, and again in the 8th century. In c. 732, the Emperor [Leo III the Isaurian](/source/Leo_III_the_Isaurian) transferred the island from the jurisdiction of the [Pope](/source/Pope) to that of the [Patriarchate of Constantinople](/source/Patriarchate_of_Constantinople).[54]

### Arab rule

Main article: [Emirate of Crete](/source/Emirate_of_Crete)

In the 820s, after 900 years as a Roman island, Crete was captured by Andalusian [Muwallads](/source/Muwallad) led by [Abu Hafs](/source/Abu_Hafs_(pirate)),[55] who established the [Emirate of Crete](/source/Emirate_of_Crete). The Byzantines launched a campaign that took most of the island back in 842 and 843 under [Theoktistos](/source/Theoktistos). Further Byzantine campaigns in 911 and 949 failed. In 960–61, [Nikephoros Phokas](/source/Nikephoros_II)' [campaign](/source/Siege_of_Chandax) restored Crete to the Byzantine Empire, after a century and a half of Arab control. Muslim inhabitants were either killed or carried off into slavery, while the island's last emir [Abd al-Aziz ibn Shu'ayb](/source/Abd_al-Aziz_ibn_Shu'ayb) (Kouroupas) and his son al-Numan (Anemas) were taken captive and brought to Constantinople, where Phokas celebrated a [triumph](/source/Roman_triumph).[56][57] The island was converted into a Byzantine [theme](/source/Theme_(Byzantine_district)), and the remaining Muslims were converted to Christianity by missionaries like [Nikon "the Metanoeite"](/source/Nikon_the_Metanoeite).

### Byzantine Empire – second period

Main article: [Byzantine Crete](/source/Byzantine_Crete)

In 961, [Nikephoros Phokas](/source/Nikephoros_II_Phokas) returned the island to Byzantine rule after expelling the Arabs.[58] Extensive efforts at conversion of the populace were undertaken, led by [John Xenos](/source/John_Xenos) and [Nikon "the Metanoeite"](/source/Nikon_the_Metanoeite).[59][57] The reconquest of Crete was a major achievement for the [Byzantines](/source/Byzantines), as it restored Byzantine control over the Aegean littoral and diminished the threat of [Saracen](/source/Saracen) pirates, for which Crete had provided a base of operations.

In 1204, the [Fourth Crusade](/source/Fourth_Crusade) seized and sacked the imperial capital of [Constantinople](/source/Constantinople). Crete was initially granted to leading Crusader [Boniface of Montferrat](/source/Boniface_I,_Marquis_of_Montferrat)[58] in the partition of spoils that followed. However, Boniface sold his claim to the [Republic of Venice](/source/Republic_of_Venice),[58] whose forces made up the majority of the Crusade. Venice's rival the [Republic of Genoa](/source/Republic_of_Genoa) immediately seized the island and it was not until 1212 that Venice secured Crete as a colony.

### Venetian rule

Main article: [Kingdom of Candia](/source/Kingdom_of_Candia)

From 1212, during [Venice](/source/Republic_of_Venice)'s rule, which lasted more than four centuries, a [Renaissance](/source/Renaissance) swept through the island as is evident from the artistic works dating to that period. Known as [The Cretan School](/source/The_Cretan_School) or [Post-Byzantine Art](/source/Post-Byzantine_Art), it is among the last flowerings of the artistic traditions of the fallen empire. This included the painter [El Greco](/source/El_Greco) and the writers [Nicholas Kalliakis](/source/Nicholas_Kalliakis) (1645–1707), [Georgios Kalafatis (professor)](/source/Georgios_Kalafatis_(professor)) (c. 1652–1720), [Andreas Musalus](/source/Andreas_Musalus) (c. 1665–1721) and [Vitsentzos Kornaros](/source/Vitsentzos_Kornaros).[60][61][62]

In total, about 10,000 Venetians are estimated to have moved to Crete during the first century of Venetian rule—by comparison, Venice itself had a population of c. 60,000 at this period.[63] The colonization wave of 1252 also resulted in the establishment of Canea (modern [Chania](/source/Chania)), on the site of the long abandoned ancient city of [Kydonia](/source/Kydonia).[63]

Under the rule of the Catholic [Venetians](/source/Republic_of_Venice), the city of Candia (modern [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion)) was reputed to be the best fortified city of the [Eastern Mediterranean](/source/Eastern_Mediterranean).[64] The three main forts were located at [Gramvousa](/source/Gramvousa), [Spinalonga](/source/Spinalonga), and [Fortezza](/source/Fortezza_Castle) at Rethymnon. Other fortifications include the [Kazarma fortress](/source/Kazarma_fortress) at Sitia and [Frangokastello](/source/Frangokastello) in Sfakia.

In 1492, Jews expelled from Spain settled on the island.[65] In 1574–77, Crete was under the rule of [Giacomo Foscarini](/source/Giacomo_Foscarini) as Proveditor General, Sindace and [Inquisitor](/source/Inquisitor). According to Starr's 1942 article, the rule of Giacomo Foscarini was a Dark Age for Jews and Greeks. Under his rule, non-Catholics had to pay high taxes with no allowances. In 1627, there were 800 Jews in the city of Candia, about seven percent of the city's population.[66] [Marco Foscarini](/source/Marco_Foscarini) was the Doge of Venice during this time.

### Ottoman rule

Main articles: [Ottoman Crete](/source/Ottoman_Crete), [Cretan Turks](/source/Cretan_Turks) and [Cretan Revolt (1866–1869)](/source/Cretan_Revolt_(1866%E2%80%931869))

The Ottomans [conquered Crete](/source/Cretan_War_(1645%E2%80%931669)) (Girit Eyâleti) in 1669, after the [siege of Candia](/source/Siege_of_Candia) with the last Venetian strongholds off Crete falling in the last [Ottoman–Venetian War](/source/Ottoman%E2%80%93Venetian_War_(1714%E2%80%931718)) in 1715. Many Greek Cretans fled to other regions of the [Republic of Venice](/source/Republic_of_Venice) after the [Ottoman–Venetian Wars](/source/Ottoman%E2%80%93Venetian_Wars), some even prospering such as the family of [Simone Stratigo](/source/Simone_Stratigo) (c. 1733 – c. 1824) who migrated to [Dalmatia](/source/Dalmatia) from Crete in 1669.[67]

Heraklion was surrounded by high walls and bastions and extended westward and southward by the 17th century. The most opulent area of the city was the northeastern quadrant where the elite were gathered. The city had received another name under the rule of the Ottomans, "the deserted city" following its destruction after the [Siege of Candia](/source/Siege_of_Candia).

[Islamic](/source/Islamic) presence on the island, aside from the interlude of the [Arab occupation](/source/Emirate_of_Crete), was cemented by the [Ottoman conquest](/source/Ottoman_wars_in_Europe). Most [Cretan Muslims](/source/Cretan_Muslims) were local Greek converts who spoke Cretan [Greek](/source/Greek_language), but in the island's 19th-century political context they came to be viewed by the Christian population as Turks.[68] Contemporary estimates vary, but in 1830, as much as 45% of the population of the island may have been Muslim.[69]

During the [Russo-Turkish War (1768–1774)](/source/Russo-Turkish_War_(1768%E2%80%931774)), a revolt against Ottoman rule in Crete was started by [Daskalogiannis](/source/Daskalogiannis), a shipowner from [Sfakia](/source/Sfakia) who was promised support by the Russian navy which never arrived. Daskalogiannis eventually surrendered to the Ottoman authorities.[70][71] On 17 June 1771 Daskalogiannis was, in the full daylight of publicity, tortured, skinned alive and then beaten to death, an ordeal that he endured in complete silence.[72] Today, [Chania International Airport](/source/Chania_International_Airport) is named after him.[73]

During the [Greek War of Independence](/source/Greek_War_of_Independence), Sultan [Mahmud II](/source/Mahmud_II) granted rule over Crete to Egypt's *de facto* ruler [Muhammad Ali Pasha](/source/Muhammad_Ali_of_Egypt) in exchange for his military support. Crete was subsequently left out of the new Greek state established under the [London Protocol of 1830](/source/London_Protocol_of_1830).[74] Its administration by Muhammad Ali was confirmed in the [Convention of Kütahya](/source/Convention_of_K%C3%BCtahya) of 1833, but direct Ottoman rule was re-established by the [Convention of London](/source/Convention_of_London_(1840)) of 3 July 1840.[69]

The [Cretan Revolt of 1866–1869](/source/Cretan_Revolt_(1866%E2%80%9369)) or Great Cretan Revolution (Greek: Κρητική Επανάσταση του 1866) was a three-year uprising against Ottoman rule, the third and largest in a series of revolts between the end of the Greek War of Independence in 1830 and the establishment of the independent Cretan State in 1898. A particular event which caused strong reactions among the liberal circles of western Europe was the *Holocaust of Arkadi*. The event occurred in November 1866, as a large Ottoman force besieged the [Arkadi Monastery](/source/Arkadi_Monastery), which served as the headquarters of the rebellion.[75]

In addition to its 259 defenders, over 700 women and children had taken refuge in the monastery. After a few days of hard fighting, the Ottomans broke into the monastery. At that point, under orders from the [hegumen](/source/Hegumen) (abbot) of the monastery, the Cretans blew up barrels of gunpowder, choosing to sacrifice themselves rather than surrender. The subsequent explosion resulted the death of most of the rebels and the women and children sheltered there.[76] Thirty-six insurgents had found refuge in the refectory, near the ammunitions. Discovered by the Ottomans, who forced the door, they were massacred.[76]

### Cretan State and union with Greece

Main articles: [Cretan State](/source/Cretan_State), [Theriso revolt](/source/Theriso_revolt), [Candia massacre](/source/Candia_massacre) and [International Squadron (Cretan intervention, 1897–1898)](/source/International_Squadron_(Cretan_intervention,_1897%E2%80%931898))

Following the repeated uprisings in 1841, 1858, 1889, 1895 and 1897 by the Cretan people, who wanted to join Greece, the [Great Powers](/source/Great_powers#History) decided to restore order and in February 1897 sent in troops. The island was subsequently garrisoned by troops from Great Britain, France, Italy and Russia; Germany and Austro-Hungary withdrawing from the occupation in early 1898. During this period Crete was governed through a committee of admirals from the remaining four Powers. In March 1898 the Powers decreed, with the reluctant consent of the Sultan, that the island would be granted autonomy under Ottoman [suzerainty](/source/Suzerainty) in the near future.[77]

In September 1898 the [Candia massacre](/source/Candia_massacre) in Candia, modern Heraklion, left over 500 Cretan Christians and 14 British servicemen dead at the hands of Muslim irregulars. As a result, the Admirals ordered the expulsion of all Ottoman troops and administrators from the island, a move that was ultimately completed by early November. The decision to grant autonomy to the island was enforced and a High Commissioner, [Prince George of Greece](/source/Prince_George_of_Greece), appointed, arriving to take up his post in December 1898.[78] The flag of the [Cretan State](/source/Cretan_State) was chosen by the Powers, with the white star representing the Ottoman suzerainty over the island.

In 1905, disagreements between Prince George and minister Eleftherios Venizelos over the question of the *[enosis](/source/Enosis)* (union with Greece), such as the Prince's autocratic style of government, resulted in the [Theriso revolt](/source/Theriso_revolt), one of the leaders being [Eleftherios Venizelos](/source/Eleftherios_Venizelos). Prince George resigned as High Commissioner and was replaced by [Alexandros Zaimis](/source/Alexandros_Zaimis), a former Greek prime minister, in 1906. In 1908, taking advantage of domestic turmoil in Turkey as well as the timing of Zaimis's vacation away from the island, the Cretan deputies unilaterally declared union with Greece. With the outbreak of the [First Balkan War](/source/First_Balkan_War), the Greek government declared that Crete was now Greek territory. This was not recognised internationally until 1 December 1913.[78]

### Second World War

Main articles: [Battle of Crete](/source/Battle_of_Crete) and [Cretan resistance](/source/Cretan_resistance)

During World War II, the island was the scene of the [Battle of Crete](/source/Battle_of_Crete) in May 1941. The initial 11-day battle was bloody and left more than 11,000 soldiers and civilians killed or wounded. As a result of the fierce resistance from both Allied forces and civilian Cretan locals, the invasion force suffered heavy casualties, and [Adolf Hitler](/source/Adolf_Hitler) forbade further large-scale [paratroop](/source/Paratroop) operations for the rest of the war.

During the initial and subsequent occupation, German firing squads routinely executed male civilians in reprisal for the death of German soldiers; civilians were rounded up randomly in local villages for the mass killings, such as at the [Massacre of Kondomari](/source/Massacre_of_Kondomari) and the [Viannos massacres](/source/Viannos_massacres). Two German generals were later tried and executed for their roles in the killing of 3,000 of the island's inhabitants.[79]

Following the collapse of fronts elsewhere in Europe, German forces evacuated most of Crete in October 1944 leaving an area including Chania under occupation. The following year the day after [VE Day](/source/VE_Day) the remaining Germans under Generalmajor [Hans-Georg Benthack](/source/Hans-Georg_Benthack) surrendered at [Knossos](/source/Knossos) to British Major-General [Colin Callander](/source/Colin_Callander), refusing to surrender to the Greek army, for fear of retaliations.[80]

### Civil War

In the aftermath of the [Dekemvriana](/source/Dekemvriana) in Athens, Cretan leftists were targeted by the right-wing paramilitary organization National Organization of Rethymno (EOR), which engaged in attacks in the villages of Koxare and Melampes, as well as Rethymno in January 1945. Those attacks did not escalate into a full-scale insurgency as they did in the Greek mainland and the Cretan [ELAS](/source/ELAS) did not surrender its weapons after the [Treaty of Varkiza](/source/Treaty_of_Varkiza). An uneasy truce was maintained until 1947, with a series of arrests of notable communists in Chania and Heraklion. Encouraged by orders from the central organization in Athens, KKE launched an insurgency in Crete; marking the beginning of the [Greek Civil War](/source/Greek_Civil_War) on the island. In eastern Crete the [Democratic Army of Greece](/source/Democratic_Army_of_Greece) (DSE) struggled to establish its presence in [Dikti](/source/Dikti) and [Psilorites](/source/Psilorites). On 1 July 1947, the surviving 55 fighters of DSE were ambushed south of Psilorites, the few surviving members of the unit managed to join the rest of DSE in [Lefka Ori](/source/Lefka_Ori).[81]

The [Lefka Ori](/source/Lefka_Ori) region in the west offered more favourable conditions for DSE's insurgency. In the summer of 1947 DSE raided and looted the [Maleme Airport](/source/Maleme_Airport) and motor depot at Chrysopigi. Its numbers swelled to approximately 300 fighters. The rise of DSE numbers compounded with crop failure on the island created serious logistical issues for the insurgents. The communists resorted to [cattle rustling](/source/Cattle_raiding) and crop confiscations which solved the problem only temporarily. In the autumn of 1947, the Greek government offered generous amnesty terms to Cretan DSE fighters and mountain bandits, many of whom opted to abandon armed struggle or defect to the nationalists. On 4 July 1948, government troops launched a large scale offensive on [Samariá Gorge](/source/Samari%C3%A1_Gorge). Many DSE soldiers were killed in the fighting while the survivors broke into small armed bands. In October 1948, the secretary of the Cretan KKE Giorgos Tsitilos was killed in an ambush. By the following month only 34 DSE fighters remained active in Lefka Ori. The insurgency in Crete gradually withered away, with the last two hold outs surrendering in 1974, 25 years after the conclusion of the war in mainland Greece.[82]

## Tourism

Main article: [Tourism in Greece](/source/Tourism_in_Greece)

Crete is one of the most popular holiday destinations in Greece. In 2023, Crete welcomed 6.3 million visitors, who stayed on average 5.4 days on the island, reflecting significant overtourism pressure on coastal infrastructure.[83] 15% of all arrivals in Greece come through the city of Heraklion (port and airport), while charter journeys to Heraklion make up about 20% of all charter flights in Greece.[84] The number of hotel beds on the island increased by 53% in the period between 1986 and 1991.

Today, the island's tourism infrastructure includes a wide range of accommodation; including large luxury hotels with their complete facilities, swimming pools, sports and recreation, smaller family-owned apartments, camping facilities and others. Visitors reach the island via two international airports in Heraklion and [Chania](/source/Chania) and a smaller airport in [Sitia](/source/Sitia) (international charter and domestic flights started in May 2012)[85] or by boat to the main ports of Heraklion, Chania, [Rethimno](/source/Rethimno), [Agios Nikolaos](/source/Agios_Nikolaos,_Crete) and [Sitia](/source/Sitia).

Popular tourist attractions include the archaeological sites of the Minoan civilisation, the Venetian old city and port of [Chania](/source/Chania), the Venetian castle at [Rethymno](/source/Rethymno), the gorge of [Samaria](/source/Samari%C3%A1_Gorge), the islands of [Chrysi](/source/Chrysi_(island)), [Elafonisi](/source/Elafonisi), [Gramvousa](/source/Gramvousa), [Spinalonga](/source/Spinalonga) and the Palm Beach of [Vai](/source/Vai_(Crete)), which is the largest natural palm forest in Europe.

### Transportation

Crete has an extensive bus system with regular services across the north of the island and from north to south. There are two regional bus stations in Heraklion. Bus routes and timetables can be found on KTEL website.[86]

### Holiday homes and immigration

Crete's mild climate attracts [northern Europeans](/source/Northern_Europe) who want a holiday home or residence on the island. [EU](/source/European_Union) citizens have the right to freely buy property and reside with little formality.[87] In the cities of Heraklion and Chania, the average price per square metre of apartments ranges from €1,670 to €1,700.[88] A growing number of real estate companies cater mainly to British immigrants, followed by [Dutch](/source/Netherlands), [German](/source/Germany), [Scandinavian](/source/Scandinavia) and other European nationalities wishing to own a home in Crete. The [British](/source/United_Kingdom) immigrants are concentrated in the western regional units of [Chania](/source/Chania_(regional_unit)) and [Rethymno](/source/Rethymno_(regional_unit)) and to a lesser extent in [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion_(regional_unit)) and [Lasithi](/source/Lasithi).[43]

### Archaeological sites and museums

Main article: [List of museums in Greece#Crete](/source/List_of_museums_in_Greece#Crete)

The area has a large number of archaeological sites, including the Minoan sites of [Knossos](/source/Knossos), [Malia](/source/Malia_(archaeological_site)) (not to be confused with the town of the same name), Zakros, [Petras](/source/Petras) and [Phaistos](/source/Phaistos), the classical site of [Gortys](/source/Gortys), and the diverse archaeology of the island of [Koufonisi](/source/Koufonisi), which includes Minoan, Roman, and World War II era ruins (nb. due to conservation concerns, access to Koufonisi has been restricted for the last few years).

There are museums throughout Crete, most notably the [Heraklion Archaeological Museum](/source/Heraklion_Archaeological_Museum) which displays most of the archaeological finds from the Minoan era.[89] Other notable museums in the Chania Regional Unit include the [Maritime Museum of Crete](/source/Maritime_Museum_of_Crete), the [Archaeological Museum of Chania](/source/Archaeological_Museum_of_Chania), the [Residence Museum Venizelos](/source/Eleftherios_Venizelos_Museum_of_Chalepa)[90] and the WW2 museum in Platanias.[91]

### Harmful effects

Helen Briassoulis, in a qualitative analysis, proposed in the *[Journal of Sustainable Tourism](/source/Journal_of_Sustainable_Tourism)* that Crete is affected by tourism applying pressure to it to develop at an unhealthy rate, and that informal, internal systems within the country are forced to adapt. According to her, these forces have strengthened in three stages: from the period from 1960 to 1970, 1970–1990, and 1990 to the present. During this first period, tourism was a largely positive force, pushing modern developments like running water and electricity onto the largely rural countryside. However, beginning in the second period and especially in the third period leading up to the present day, tourist companies became more pushy with deforestation and pollution of Crete's natural resources. The country is then pulled into an interesting parity, where these companies only upkeep those natural resources that are directly essential to their industry.[92]

## Fauna and flora

Main article: [Crete Mediterranean forests](/source/Crete_Mediterranean_forests)

### Fauna

Crete is isolated from mainland Europe, Asia, and Africa, and this is reflected in the diversity of the fauna and flora. As a result, the fauna and flora of Crete have many clues to the evolution of species. There are no animals that are dangerous to humans on the island of Crete in contrast to other parts of Greece. Indeed, the ancient Greeks attributed the lack of large mammals such as bears, wolves, jackals, and venomous snakes, to the labour of [Hercules](/source/Hercules) (who took a live Cretan bull to the [Peloponnese](/source/Peloponnese)). Hercules wanted to honor the birthplace of Zeus by removing all "harmful" and "venomous" animals from Crete. Later, Cretans believed that the island was cleared of dangerous creatures by the [Apostle Paul](/source/Apostle_Paul), who lived on the island of Crete for two years, with his exorcisms and blessings. The [Natural History Museum of Crete](/source/Natural_History_Museum_of_Crete), operates under the direction of the [University of Crete](/source/University_of_Crete) and two aquariums – [Aquaworld](/source/Aquaworld_Aquarium) in [Hersonissos](/source/Hersonissos) and [Cretaquarium](/source/Cretaquarium) in Gournes, display sea creatures common in Cretan waters.

#### Prehistoric fauna

[Dwarf elephants](/source/Dwarf_elephant), [dwarf hippopotamus](/source/Hippopotamus_creutzburgi), [dwarf mammoths](/source/Dwarf_mammoths), [dwarf deer](/source/Candiacervus), and [giant flightless owls](/source/Cretan_owl) were native to [Pleistocene](/source/Pleistocene) Crete.[93][94] Their ancestors could have reached the island in the time of the [Messinian salinity crisis](/source/Messinian_salinity_crisis).

#### Mammals

Main article: [Mammals of Greece](/source/Mammals_of_Greece)

Mammals of Crete include the vulnerable [kri-kri](/source/Kri-kri), *Capra aegagrus cretica* that can be seen in the national park of the [Samaria Gorge](/source/Samaria_Gorge) and on [Thodorou](/source/Thodorou),[95] [Dia](/source/Dia_(island)) and [Agioi Pantes](/source/Agioi_Pantes) (islets off the north coast), the [Cretan wildcat](/source/Cretan_wildcat) and the [Cretan spiny mouse](/source/Cretan_spiny_mouse).[96][97][98][99] Other terrestrial mammals include subspecies of the Cretan marten, the Cretan weasel, the Cretan badger, the Cretan wildcat,[100] the [long-eared hedgehog](/source/Long-eared_hedgehog), and the [edible dormouse](/source/Edible_dormouse).[101]

The [Cretan shrew](/source/Cretan_shrew), a type of [white-toothed shrew](/source/White-toothed_shrew) is considered [endemic](/source/Endemic_species) to the island of Crete because this species of shrew is unknown elsewhere. It is a [relic species](/source/Relic_species) of the *Crocidura* shrews of which [fossils](/source/Fossil) have been found that can be dated to the [Pleistocene](/source/Pleistocene) era. Today it can only be found in the highlands of Crete.[102] It is considered to be the only surviving remnant of the endemic species of the Pleistocene Mediterranean islands.[103]

Bat species include: [Blasius's horseshoe bat](/source/Blasius's_horseshoe_bat), the [lesser horseshoe bat](/source/Lesser_horseshoe_bat), the [greater horseshoe bat](/source/Greater_horseshoe_bat), the [lesser mouse-eared bat](/source/Lesser_mouse-eared_bat), [Geoffroy's bat](/source/Geoffroy's_bat), the [whiskered bat](/source/Whiskered_bat), [Kuhl's pipistrelle](/source/Kuhl's_pipistrelle), the [common pipistrelle](/source/Common_pipistrelle), [Savi's pipistrelle](/source/Savi's_pipistrelle), the [serotine bat](/source/Serotine_bat), the [long-eared bat](/source/Long-eared_bat), [Schreibers' bat](/source/Schreibers'_bat) and the [European free-tailed bat](/source/European_free-tailed_bat).[104]

#### Birds

Varieties of birds include eagles (can be seen in [Lasithi](/source/Lasithi)), swallows (throughout Crete in the summer and year-round in the south of the island), [pelicans](/source/Pelican) (along the coast), and [common cranes](/source/Common_crane) (including [Gavdos](/source/Gavdos) and [Gavdopoula](/source/Gavdopoula)). The Cretan mountains and gorges are refuges for the endangered [lammergeier](/source/Lammergeier) vulture. Bird species include: the [golden eagle](/source/Golden_eagle), [Bonelli's eagle](/source/Bonelli's_eagle), the [bearded vulture](/source/Bearded_vulture) or lammergeier, the [griffon vulture](/source/Griffon_vulture), [Eleonora's falcon](/source/Eleonora's_falcon), [peregrine falcon](/source/Peregrine_falcon), [lanner falcon](/source/Lanner_falcon), [European kestrel](/source/European_kestrel), [tawny owl](/source/Tawny_owl), [little owl](/source/Little_owl), [hooded crow](/source/Hooded_crow), [alpine chough](/source/Alpine_chough), [red-billed chough](/source/Red-billed_chough), and the [Eurasian hoopoe](/source/Eurasian_hoopoe).[105][106] The population of griffon vultures in Crete is the largest insular one of the species in the world and consists of the majority of the griffon vulture population in Greece.[107]

#### Reptiles and amphibians

Tortoises can be seen throughout the island. Snakes can be found hiding under rocks. Toads and frogs reveal themselves when it rains. Reptiles include the [Aegean wall lizard](/source/Aegean_wall_lizard), [Balkan green lizard](/source/Balkan_green_lizard), [common chameleon](/source/Common_chameleon), [ocellated skink](/source/Chalcides_ocellatus), [snake-eyed skink](/source/Snake-eyed_skink), [Moorish gecko](/source/Moorish_gecko), [Turkish gecko](/source/Turkish_gecko), [Kotschy's gecko](/source/Kotschy's_gecko), [spur-thighed tortoise](/source/Spur-thighed_tortoise), and the [Caspian turtle](/source/Caspian_turtle).[104][108] There are four species of snake on the island and these are not dangerous to humans. The four species include the [leopard snake](/source/Leopard_snake) (locally known as *ochendra*), the [Balkan whip snake](/source/Balkan_whip_snake) (locally called *dendrogallia*), the [dice snake](/source/Dice_snake) (called *nerofido* in Greek), and the only venomous snake is the nocturnal [cat snake](/source/European_cat_snake) which has evolved to deliver a weak venom at the back of its mouth to paralyse geckos and small lizards, and is not dangerous to humans.[104][109]

Sea turtles include the [green turtle](/source/Green_turtle) and the [loggerhead turtle](/source/Loggerhead_turtle) which are both threatened species.[108] The loggerhead turtle nests and hatches on north-coast beaches around Rethymno and Chania, and south-coast beaches along the gulf of Mesara.[110] Amphibians include the [European green toad](/source/European_green_toad), [American bullfrog](/source/American_bullfrog) (introduced), [European tree frog](/source/European_tree_frog), and the [Cretan marsh frog](/source/Cretan_marsh_frog) ([endemic](/source/Endemism)).[104][108][111]

#### Arthropods

[Cicadas](/source/Cicada), known locally as *tzitzikia*, make a distinctive repetitive *tzi tzi* [sound](http://www.cicadasong.eu) that becomes louder and more frequent on hot summer days. Butterfly species include the [swallowtail butterfly](/source/Swallowtail_butterfly).[104] There are several species of scorpion such as *[Euscorpius carpathicus](/source/Euscorpius_carpathicus)* whose venom is generally no more potent than a mosquito bite.

#### Crustaceans and molluscs

River crabs include the semi-terrestrial *[Potamon potamios](/source/Potamon_potamios)* crab.[104] Edible snails are widespread and can cluster in the hundreds waiting for rainfall to reinvigorate them.

#### Sealife

Apart from terrestrial mammals, the seas around Crete are rich in large marine mammals. The endangered [Mediterranean monk seal](/source/Mediterranean_monk_seal) lives in almost all the coasts of the country. The area south of Crete, known as the Greek Abyss, hosts [whales](/source/Whale), [sperm whales](/source/Sperm_whale), [dolphins](/source/Dolphin) and [porpoises](/source/Porpoise).[112] The Minoan frescoes depicting dolphins in Queen's Megaron at Knossos indicate that Minoans were well aware of and celebrated these creatures. [Squid](/source/Squid), [octopus](/source/Octopus), [sea turtles](/source/Sea_turtle) and [hammerhead sharks](/source/Hammerhead_shark) live or traverse along the coast.

Some of the fish of the waters around Crete include: [scorpion fish](/source/Scorpion_fish), [dusky grouper](/source/Dusky_grouper), east Atlantic peacock [wrasse](/source/Wrasse), five-spotted wrasse, [weever fish](/source/Weever_fish), [common stingray](/source/Common_stingray), [brown ray](/source/Brown_ray), [Mediterranean black goby](/source/Mediterranean_black_goby), [pearly razorfish](/source/Pearly_razorfish), [star-gazer](/source/Star-gazer), [painted comber](/source/Painted_comber), [damselfish](/source/Damselfish), and the [flying gurnard](/source/Flying_gurnard).[113]

The [Cretaquarium](/source/Cretaquarium) and the [Aquaworld Aquarium](/source/Aquaworld_Aquarium), are two of the three aquariums in Greece. They are located in [Gournes](/source/Gournes) and [Hersonissos](/source/Hersonissos) respectively.[114][115]

### Flora

The Minoans contributed to the deforestation of Crete. Further deforestation occurred in the 1600s "so that no more local supplies of firewood were available".[116]

Common wildflowers include: camomile, daisy, gladiolus, hyacinth, [iris](/source/Iris_flower), poppy, cyclamen and tulip, among others.[117] There are more than 200 species of wild [orchid](/source/Orchid) on the island and this includes 14 varieties of *[Ophrys cretica](/source/Ophrys_cretica)*.[118] Crete has a rich variety of indigenous herbs including common [sage](/source/Salvia_officinalis), [rosemary](/source/Rosemary), [thyme](/source/Thyme), and [oregano](/source/Oregano).[118][119] Rare herbs include the endemic [Cretan dittany](/source/Origanum_dictamus)[118][119] and [ironwort](/source/Ironwort), *[Sideritis syriaca](/source/Sideritis_syriaca)*, known as [malotira](/source/Malotira) (μαλοτήρα). Varieties of cactus include the edible [prickly pear](/source/Opuntia). Common trees on the island include the [chestnut](/source/Castanea_sativa), [cypress](/source/Cupressus_sempervirens), [oak](/source/Oak_tree), [olive tree](/source/Olea_europaea), [pine](/source/Pinus_brutia), [plane](/source/Platanus_orientalis), and [tamarisk](/source/Tamarisk_tree).[119] Trees tend to be taller to the west of the island where water is more abundant.

See also: [List of endemic plants of Crete](/source/List_of_endemic_plants_of_Crete)

### Environmentally protected areas

Environmentally protected areas include the island of [Elafonisi](/source/Elafonisi) on the coast of southwestern Crete, the palm forest of [Vai](/source/Vai_(Crete)) in eastern Crete and the [Dionysades](/source/Dionysades) (both in the municipality of [Sitia](/source/Sitia), [Lasithi](/source/Lasithi)). [Vai](/source/Vai_(Crete)) has a palm beach and is the largest natural palm forest in Europe. The island of [Chrysi](/source/Chrysi_(island)), 15 kilometres (9 miles) south of [Ierapetra](/source/Ierapetra), has the largest naturally-grown *[Juniperus macrocarpa](/source/Juniperus_macrocarpa)* forest in Europe. [Samaria Gorge](/source/Samaria_Gorge) is a [World Biosphere Reserve](/source/Man_and_the_Biosphere_Programme) and [Richtis Gorge](/source/Richtis_Gorge) is protected for its landscape diversity. Also, Sitia UNESCO Global Geopark, added in 2015 in UNESCO Geoparks, is located on the easternmost edge of Crete.

## Mythology

Main article: [Greek mythology](/source/Greek_mythology)

Crete has a strong association with ancient [Greek gods](/source/Greek_gods) but is also connected with the [Minoan civilization](/source/Minoan_civilization). According to [Greek mythology](/source/Greek_mythology), the [Diktaean Cave](/source/Psychro_Cave) at Mount [Dikti](/source/Dikti) was the birthplace of the god [Zeus](/source/Zeus). The [Paximadia](/source/Paximadia) islands were the birthplace of the goddess [Artemis](/source/Artemis) and the god [Apollo](/source/Apollo) [citation needed]. Their mother, the goddess [Leto](/source/Leto), was worshipped at [Phaistos](/source/Phaistos). The goddess [Athena](/source/Athena) bathed in Lake Voulismeni. Zeus launched a lightning bolt at a giant lizard that was threatening Crete. The lizard immediately turned to stone and became the lizard-shaped island of [Dia](/source/Dia_(island)), which can be seen from Knossos. The islets of [Lefkai](/source/Souda_(island)) were the result of a musical contest between the [Sirens](/source/Siren_(mythology)) and the [Muses](/source/Muses). The Muses were so anguished to have lost that they plucked the feathers from the wings of their rivals; the Sirens turned white and fell into the sea at [Aptera](/source/Aptera,_Greece) ("featherless"), where they formed the islands in the bay that were called Lefkai (the islands of [Souda](/source/Souda_(island)) and [Leon](/source/Leon_(Souda_Bay))).[120] [Heracles](/source/Heracles), in one of his labors, took the [Cretan bull](/source/Cretan_bull) to the Peloponnese. [Europa](/source/Europa_(consort_of_Zeus)) and Zeus made love at [Gortys](/source/Gortys) and conceived the kings of Crete: [Rhadamanthys](/source/Rhadamanthys), [Sarpedon](/source/Sarpedon_(brother_of_Minos)), and [Minos](/source/Minos).

The [labyrinth](/source/Labyrinth) of the [Palace of Knossos](/source/Palace_of_Knossos) was the setting for the myth of [Theseus](/source/Theseus#Minotaur) and the [Minotaur](/source/Minotaur) in which the Minotaur was slain by Theseus. [Icarus](/source/Icarus) and [Daedalus](/source/Daedalus) were captives of King Minos and crafted wings to escape. After his death, King Minos became a judge of the dead in [Hades](/source/Hades), while [Rhadamanthys](/source/Rhadamanthys) became the ruler of the [Elysian fields](/source/Elysium).

## Culture

Main article: [Culture of Greece](/source/Culture_of_Greece)

See also: [Cretan School](/source/Cretan_School), [Cretan literature](/source/Cretan_literature), [Music of Crete](/source/Music_of_Crete) and [Cretan cuisine](/source/Cretan_cuisine)

Crete has its own distinctive [Mantinades](/source/Mantinada) poetry. The island is known for its Mantinades-based [music](/source/Music_of_Crete) (typically performed with the [Cretan lyra](/source/Lyra_(Cretan)) and the [laouto](/source/Laouto)) and has many indigenous dances, the most noted of which is the [Pentozali](/source/Pentozali). Since the 1980s and certainly in the 1990s onwards there has been a proliferation of cultural associations that teach dancing (in Western Crete where many focus on [rizitiko](/source/Rizitika) singing). These associations often perform in official events but also become stages for people to meet and engage in traditional practices. The topic of tradition and the role of cultural associations in reviving it is often debated throughout Crete.[121]

Cretan authors have made important contributions to [Greek literature](/source/Greek_literature) throughout the modern period; major names include [Vikentios Kornaros](/source/Vikentios_Kornaros), creator of the 17th-century epic romance *[Erotokritos](/source/Erotokritos)* (Greek Ερωτόκριτος), and, in the 20th century, [Nikos Kazantzakis](/source/Nikos_Kazantzakis). In the Renaissance, Crete was the home of the [Cretan School](/source/Cretan_School) of icon painting, which influenced [El Greco](/source/El_Greco) and through him subsequent European painting.[122]

Cretans are proud of their island and customs, and men often don elements of traditional dress in everyday life: knee-high black riding boots (*stivania*), [*vráka* breeches](/source/Breeches#Types_of_breeches) tucked into the boots at the knee, black shirt and black headdress consisting of a fishnet-weave kerchief worn wrapped around the head or draped on the shoulders (*mantili* / *kefalomantilo*). Men often grow large mustaches as a mark of pride, manhood and valiance.

Cretan society is known in Greece and internationally for family and clan [vendettas](/source/Feud) which persist on the island to date.[123][124] Cretans also have a tradition of keeping firearms at home, stemming from the era of resistance against the [Ottoman Empire](/source/Ottoman_Empire). Nearly every rural household on Crete has at least one unregistered gun.[123] Guns are subject to strict regulation from the Greek government, and in recent years an effort to control firearms in Crete has been undertaken by the Greek police, but with limited success.

### Sports

Crete has many football clubs playing in the local leagues. During the 2011–12 season, [OFI](/source/OFI_Crete_F.C.), which plays at [Theodoros Vardinogiannis Stadium](/source/Theodoros_Vardinogiannis_Stadium) (Heraklion), and [Ergotelis F.C.](/source/Ergotelis_F.C.), which plays at the [Pankritio Stadium](/source/Pankritio_Stadium) (Iraklion) were both members of the [Greek Super League](/source/Super_League_Greece). During the 2012–13 season, OFI, which plays at Theodoros Vardinogiannis Stadium and [Platanias F.C.](/source/Platanias_F.C.), which plays at the Perivolia Municipal Stadium, near Chania, are both members of the Super League.

## Notable people

Main article: Category:People from Crete

Notable people from Crete include:

- [Nearchus](/source/Nearchus), navarch of the navy of [Alexander the Great](/source/Alexander_the_Great)
- [Domenikos Theotokopoulos](/source/Domenikos_Theotokopoulos) (El Greco) (1541–1614), Greek painter, sculptor and architect of the Spanish Renaissance, born in [Heraklion](/source/Heraklion)
- [Georgios Chortatzis](/source/Georgios_Chortatzis) (1545–1610), Greek dramatist in Cretan verse, born in [Rethymno](/source/Rethymno)
- [Vitsentzos Kornaros](/source/Vitsentzos_Kornaros) (1553–1613), Renaissance author from [Sitia](/source/Sitia), who lived in Heraklion (then Candia)
- [Ioannis Vlachos](/source/Ioannis_Vlachos) (Daskalogiannis) (1722/30–1771), wealthy shipbuilder and shipowner, leader of the [Orlov Revolt](/source/Orlov_Revolt) in Crete in 1770
- [Michalis Kourmoulis](/source/Michalis_Kourmoulis) (1765–1824), leader of the [Greek War of Independence](/source/Greek_War_of_Independence) from [Messara](/source/Messara_Plain)
- [Eleftherios Venizelos](/source/Eleftherios_Venizelos) (1864–1936), Greek statesman, Prime Minister of Greece from 1910 to 1933, born in [Chania Prefecture](/source/Chania_Prefecture)
- [Nikos Kazantzakis](/source/Nikos_Kazantzakis) (1883–1957), Greek writer, journalist, politician, poet and philosopher, seven times nominated for the Nobel Prize, born in Heraklion
- [Mikis Theodorakis](/source/Mikis_Theodorakis) (1925–2021), Greek composer and lyricist
- [Nick Dandolos](/source/Nick_Dandolos) (1883–1966), a.k.a. "Nick the Greek", professional gambler and high roller, born in Rethymno
- [Louis Tikas](/source/Louis_Tikas) (1886–1914), Greek-American labor union leader from [Loutra, Rethymno](/source/Loutra,_Rethymno)
- [Odysseas Elytis](/source/Odysseas_Elytis) (1911–1996), Greek poet, essayist and translator, [Nobel Prize](/source/Nobel_Prize_in_Literature) winner, born in Heraklion[125]
- [Konstantinos Mitsotakis](/source/Konstantinos_Mitsotakis) (1918–2017), Greek liberal politician and statesman, Prime Minister of Greece from 1990 to 1993 (nephew of Eleftherios Venizelos and father of [Kyriakos Mitsotakis](/source/Kyriakos_Mitsotakis))
- [George Psychoundakis](/source/George_Psychoundakis) (1920–2006), shepherd, war hero and author, born in [Asi Gonia](/source/Asi_Gonia)
- [John Aniston](/source/John_Aniston) (Giannis Anastasakis) (1933–2022), Greek-American actor, born in Chania (father of [Jennifer Aniston](/source/Jennifer_Aniston))
- [Nana Mouskouri](/source/Nana_Mouskouri) (born 1934), singer and politician, born in Chania
- [Nikos Xylouris](/source/Nikos_Xylouris) (1936–1980), a.k.a. "Psaronikos", Greek singer/songwriter and [Cretan lyra](/source/Cretan_lyra) player, born in [Anogeia](/source/Anogeia)
- [Antonis Xylouris](/source/Antonis_Xylouris) (born 1937), a.k.a. "Psarantonis", Greek composer, folk singer and Cretan lyra player, born in Anogeia (brother of Nikos Xylouris)
- [Joseph Sifakis](/source/Joseph_Sifakis) (born 1946), Greek-French computer scientist, laureate of the 2007 [Turing Award](/source/Turing_Award), born in Heraklion
- [George Karniadakis](/source/George_Karniadakis) (born 1959), Greek-American research scientist, Professor of Applied Mathematics at Brown University
- [Tess Fragoulis](/source/Tess_Fragoulis) (born 1964), Greek-Canadian writer and educator, born in Heraklion
- [Zach Galifianakis](/source/Zach_Galifianakis) (born 1969), American actor whose paternal grandparents were from Crete
- [Constantinos Daskalakis](/source/Constantinos_Daskalakis) (born 1981), Greek theoretical computer scientist whose grandparents were from Crete
- [Eleni Daniilidou](/source/Eleni_Daniilidou) (born 1982), tennis player, born in Chania
- [Georgos Kalaitzakis](/source/Georgios_Kalaitzakis) (born 1999), Greek professional basketball player, born in Heraklion

### Mythology

- [Minoas](/source/Minos)
- [Minotaur](/source/Minotaur)
- [Ariadne](/source/Ariadne)
- [Phaedra](/source/Phaedra_(mythology))
- [Pasiphae](/source/Pasiphae)
- [Idomeneus](/source/Idomeneus)

## See also

- [Cretan Greek](/source/Cretan_Greek)
- [Cretan lyra](/source/Cretan_lyra)
- [Cretan wine](/source/Cretan_wine)
- [List of novels set in Crete](/source/List_of_novels_set_in_Crete)
- [List of rulers of Crete](/source/List_of_rulers_of_Crete)
- [Mantinades](/source/Mantinada)

## References

1. ["CensusHub2"](https://ec.europa.eu/CensusHub2/intermediate.do). *ec.europa.eu*. Retrieved 2021-03-22.

1. ["Sub-national HDI – Area Database – Global Data Lab"](https://hdi.globaldatalab.org/areadata/shdi/). *hdi.globaldatalab.org*. Retrieved 2021-07-20.

1. ["Population on 1 January by NUTS 2 region"](https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/view/tgs00096/default/table?lang=en). *Statistics Eurostat*. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20210121060511/https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/databrowser/view/tgs00096/default/table?lang=en) 21 January 2021 at the Wayback Machine.

1. [Ancient Crete](http://oxfordbibliographiesonline.com/display/id/obo-9780195389661-0071)[Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200530225110/http://oxfordbibliographiesonline.com/display/id/obo-9780195389661-0071) 30 May 2020 at the Wayback Machine Oxford Bibliographies Online: Classics

1. Stephanie Lynn Budin, *The Ancient Greeks: An Introduction* (New York: Oxford UP, 2004), 42.

1. O. Dickinson, *The Aegean Bronze Age* (Cambridge, UK: Cambridge UP, 1994), 241–244.

1. Found on the [PY](/source/Pylos) An 128 tablet.

1. Found on the [PY Ta 641](/source/PY_Ta_641) and PY Ta 709 tablets.

1. ["The Linear B word *ke-re-si-ji*"](http://www.palaeolexicon.com/ShowWord.aspx?Id=16779). *Palaeolexicon*

1. , .

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1. Αναρτήθηκε από admin. ["ΤΟΠΙΟ: Θοδωρού, η άγνωστη νησίδα του Βενετικού ναυτικού οχυρού, των κρι-κρι και η απαγόρευση προσέγγισης"](http://to-pio.blogspot.gr/2011/11/blog-post_22.html). To-pio.blogspot.gr. Retrieved 26 March 2013.

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1. [Crete p. 69](https://books.google.com/books?id=KVYFI9NzLz0C&pg=PA68), by Victoria Kyriakopoulos

1. Dufresnes, C. (2019). *Amphibians of Europe, North Africa and the Middle East: A Photographic Guide*. Bloomsbury Publishing. ISBN 978-1-4729-4137-4.

1. [Marine mammals of Crete](http://www.cretanbeaches.com/en/fauna-of-crete/marine-mammals.html) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20110207014311/http://www.cretanbeaches.com/en/fauna-of-crete/marine-mammals.html) 7 February 2011 at the Wayback Machine CretanBeaches.com

1. [Fish from Crete at Aquaworld](http://www.aquaworld-crete.com/fish.html) Aquaworld Aquarium

1. [Cretaquarium](http://www.cretaquarium.gr/indexen.php) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20110626193821/http://www.cretaquarium.gr/indexen.php) 26 June 2011 at the Wayback Machine Cretaquarium.gr

1. [Great Britons in Crete, John Bryce McLaren](http://www.britsincrete.net/john_mclaren_aquaworld.html) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20110319012949/http://www.britsincrete.net/john_mclaren_aquaworld.html) 19 March 2011 at the Wayback Machine BritsinCrete.net

1. Sands, Roger (2005). [*Forestry in a Global Context*](https://books.google.com/books?id=UO1DAI60IQEC&q=crete+deforestation&pg=PA27). p. 27. ISBN 9780851990897. Retrieved 24 September 2019.

1. Fielding, J. and Turland, N. "Flowers of Crete", Royal Botanic Gardens, Kew, ISBN 978-1842460795, 2008

1. [Crete p.68](https://books.google.com/books?id=KVYFI9NzLz0C&pg=PA68) by Victoria Kyriakopoulos

1. [The Flora of Crete](http://www.explorecrete.com/nature/flora.html) ExploreCrete.com

1. Caroline M. Galt, "A marble fragment at Mount Holyoke College from the Cretan city of Aptera", *Art and Archaeology* **6** (1920:150).

1. Kalantzis, Konstantinos (2019). *Tradition in the Frame Photography, Power, and Imagination in Sfakia, Crete*. Indiana University Press. pp. 153–178. ISBN 978-0-253-03713-8.

1. ["Island's Culture"](https://activecrete.gr/islands-culture/). *Active Crete*. Retrieved 2024-04-15.

1. Brian Murphy: [Vendetta Victims: People, A Village – Crete's 'Cycle Of Blood' Survives The Centuries](https://archive.seattletimes.com/archive/19990114/2938763/vendetta-victims-people-a-village----cretes-cycle-of-blood-survives-the-centuries) at *[The Seattle Times](/source/The_Seattle_Times)*, 14 January 1999.

1. Aris Tsantiropoulos: ["Collective Memory and Blood Feud: The Case of Mountainous Crete"](https://web.archive.org/web/20120331102316/http://www.pbs.plymouth.ac.uk/solon/journal/issue%202.1/Tsantiropoulos_Article_final%5B1%5D%5B1%5D.pdf). Archived from [the original](http://www.pbs.plymouth.ac.uk/solon/journal/issue%202.1/Tsantiropoulos_Article_final%5B1%5D%5B1%5D.pdf) on 31 March 2012. (254 KB), *Crimes and Misdemeanours* 2/1 (2008), [University of Crete](/source/University_of_Crete).

1. [Odysseas Elytis](http://www.cretanbeaches.com/en/home/577-elytis.html)[dead link] by Alexandros Roniotis, CretanBeaches.com.

## General and cited sources

- Vol. 7. pp. 418–430.
- Francis, Jane and Anna Kouremenos (eds.) 2016. *Roman Crete: New Perspectives*. Oxford: Oxbow.
- Margaritis, Giorgos (2006). *Ιστορία του ελληνικού εμφυλίου πολέμου 1946-1949* [History of the Greek Civil War 1946-1949] (in Greek). Vol. II. Athens: Vivliorama. ISBN 9608087139.
- Panagiotakis, Nikolaos M. (ed.) (1987). "Εισαγωγικό Σημείωμα ("Introduction")". *Crete, History and Civilization* (in Greek). Vol. I. Vikelea Library, Association of Regional Associations of Regional Municipalities. pp. XI–XX.
- Provatakis, Theocharis (1980). *Monastery of Arkadi*. Athens: Toubi's.

## External links

- [Official Website of Gavalochori Village, Crete](https://gavalochorigreece.org) (in English)
- [Crete Locals](https://cretelocals.com) comprehensive guide of Crete Island (in English)
- [Natural History Museum of Crete](http://www.nhmc.uoc.gr/en) at the [University of Crete](/source/University_of_Crete).
- [Cretaquarium Thalassocosmos](http://www.cretaquarium.gr/) in Heraklion.
- [Aquaworld Aquarium](http://www.aquaworld-crete.com) in Hersonissos.
- [Ancient Crete](http://oxfordbibliographiesonline.com/display/id/obo-9780195389661-0071) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20200530225110/http://oxfordbibliographiesonline.com/display/id/obo-9780195389661-0071) 30 May 2020 at the Wayback Machine at Oxford Bibliographies Online: Classics.
- [Official Greek National Tourism Organisation website](http://www.visitgreece.gr/en/greek_islands/crete)
- [Interactive Virtual Tour of Crete](https://web.archive.org/web/20121123155346/http://www.360travelguide.com/travelpack/resort.asp?Resort=Crete&Code=780spl04)

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Adapted from the Wikipedia article [Crete](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crete) by Wikipedia contributors ([contributor history](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crete?action=history)). Available under [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International](https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0/). Changes may have been made.