The beginning of Cretan history fades into the mist where reality and myth meet. God Zeus, who was born in one of the caves of Crete, looked out from his sacred on mountain Ida one day and spied from afar the young princess Europa, on the coast of distant Asia. In the form of a white bull, he seduced the princess, and three sons-Minos, Radamanthys and Sarpredon were born of there union. Minos the strongest of the three sons, founded a powerful sea-borne empire (thalassocracy) which contributed to the growth of the Minoan civilization one the worlds greatest. The myths of Daedalus, the Labyrinth, the Minotaur and Theseus were woven around his name.
Chania stands on the site of the ancient city of Cydonia as is revealed by archeological excavations on Kastelli hill have brought to the light a Minoan settlement with a building of the Megaron type.Under the Arabs it was renamed Al Hanim of which Chania is a corruption. In 1252 the Venetians effectively rebuild the city adding fortifications to keep out the pirates.
Today Chania consists of the Old and New Town which blend into a harmonious whole. The old Town is the historic center of the city and every year gathers thousands of visitors enjoying relaxed moments, but also intense life.
At this time Chania became a place of considerable commercial and economic importance, sometimes being called the Venice of the East. In 1645 it was conquered by the Turks, although they were never fully in control of the hinterland. After the proclamation of Cretan autonomy in 1897 the Turks left and Chania became the capital of the independent state of Crete.
The city can provide and combine history with entertainment as well because it’s full of museums, monuments and other significant locations of great historical importance. The entertainment is insured because hundreds of bar and clubs promise to put a spell on you with there intense rhythm stigmatizing you with the Mediterranean culture.
While you can enjoy and have fun,we at Mare Nostrum look after for your best possible stay at one of the most romantic locations on the sea.
