Description of the attraction
On the island of Crete, 15 km south of Heraklion, at the foot of the sacred mountain Yuktas, there is a small picturesque town of Arhanes. The settlement dates back to the Neolithic era, and in ancient times it was an important financial center of this region. Archaeological excavations of Archanes and its environs have shown the existence of the Minoan civilization here.
Archanes is picturesque gorges, hills, mountains, a fertile valley with beautiful olive groves and vineyards, a large number of water bodies, rare species of flora and fauna. The architecture of the city is also interesting, where neoclassical traditions are perfectly combined with Venetian splendor. In Archanes and its surroundings, you can visit various churches and chapels, museums, the ancient cemetery (Fourni necropolis), the ruins of the palace of King Minos, which were discovered right in the center of the city, the Agia Irini gorge, where the Venetian aqueduct built by General Morosini is located, intended for water supply Heraklion, and much more.
In the city center is the Panagia Church with a white bell tower and a fine collection of 16th century icons. In the church of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) on the outskirts of the city you can admire the ancient Byzantine frescoes of the 14th century, and in the south of the city there is the Church of Asomatos in honor of St. Michael, also with excellent frescoes from the 14th century. The Church of St. Paraskeva is also famous for its old frescoes, which, unfortunately, are not in such good condition. The Archaeological Museum of the city is also worth a visit.
Archanes is one of the most important wine-growing regions of Crete. The famous Archanes and Armandi wines are prepared according to unique ancient recipes. The cultivation of grapes and olives accounts for 96% of the total agricultural production of the region.
Interesting sights, cozy cafes and taverns with traditional Greek cuisine, as well as comfortable hotels will make your stay in Arhanes interesting and unforgettable.
