Chania Katie Doan Thu Phuong Andreea Catruna Emmanouela Drakoulaki Davide Del Tirolo Dogukan CEBIN

Chania is the second largest city of Crete and the capital of the Chania regional unit. It lies along the north coast of the island, about 70 km (43 mi) west of Rethymno and 145 km (90 mi) west of Heraklion.

BRIEF HISTORY OF CRETE After the decline of the Minoans, Crete was invaded by a series of conquerors starting with the Myceneans. Soon, the Dorians and then later the Romans invaded. When the Roman Empire declined, the Byzantines took their turn and it was at this time that Christianity was established. The Turks ruled until 1898 after which Crete was placed under international administration. In 1913, Crete became Greek.

What we have visited:

VENIZELOS’ TOMBS This spot offers a panoramic view of Chania.

Αγία Μαγδαληνή The Church of St. Magdalene

ΑΝΑΤΟΛΙΚΗ ΤΑΦΡΟΣ The outer walls were built in the 16th century by the Republic of Venice. Some of the fortifications were demolished in the 20th century, but parts remain intact.

ΑΓΙΟΣ ΝΙΚΟΛΑΟΣ –St. Nicholas It is the only temple in Greece today, that has both a belfry and a minaret. In front of the St.Nicholas is the square of Splanzia which was the centre of the town during the Turkish occupation, as it was the oldest and biggest district of Muslims in Chania.

TURKISH UNDERNEATH FOUNTAIN During the Turkish occupation, an underground fountain was constructed for ritual usage, in which 26 steps lead.

ΑΓΙΟΙ ΑΝΑΡΓΥΡΟΙ – AGII ANARGIRI This church is hidden, because in the past Christians wanted to hide it from Turks.

BYZANTINE WALLS The Byzantine Wall was the initial fortification of the city of Chania, surrounding the settlement that was built on the hill of Kastelli.

The Venetian Dockyards The Venetian Dockyards are among the most impressive monuments in the old harbor of Chania. They were built in the 16th century, when the fleet of the Venetians ruled in the Mediterranean.

The Panagia Trimartiri The Panagia Trimartiri is considered as the protector of the city of Chania.

FIRKAS FORTRESS During the Venetian rule in Crete, the expansion of the Ottoman Turks in the area of Crete and the Eastern Mediterranean Sea, led the Venetians to fortify the cities of Crete as well as other strategically places. It is a fortress at the entrance of the harbour, in order to face a possible attack from the seaside and ensure the protection of the harbour and the city.

Thanks Chania! We love this city so much. It was a beautiful experience. We met wonderful people that we will never forget. We will miss you guys! 