Archive for 'History in Greece'

The grand historical sights and attractions of Greece have long been one of the main reasons that people from all over the globe have come to the country. Seeing these impressive sights with one’s own eyes is on the bucket list of many around the world and the fact that if you book a villa in Crete that you can take in this culture and history while also enjoying pretty towns, lovely beaches, exciting outdoor pursuits, and adventures only makes this stunning island all the more appealing as a holiday destination.

Once you have found your vacation rental in Crete, no visit would be complete without taking in the renowned Palace of Knossos. Perched atop Kephala Hill, this palace, once the majestic capital of Minoan Crete, stands as a captivating reminder of a bygone empire. Human traces on this site date as far back as the Neolithic period (7000 to 3000BC), with various palaces erected there since 1900BC. The final palace fell to ruins in 1350BC, with the site being reoccupied from the Late Mycenaean period through to Roman times. Its legacy is tied to iconic Greek legends like the Labyrinth and the tale of Daidalos and Ikaros.

     Read More

When one thinks of Greece, it is common to picture striking ancient temples rising white and stark and imposing against rich blue skies but these Ancient Greek ruins that immediately come to mind are not the only historic structures that remain nor do they represent the only period from history that can be discovered when exploring the country. Lots of other extraordinary gems remain all over Greece that date back to different periods, architectural styles, historic moments, and ruling peoples from Byzantine churches in Athens to Venetian fortresses in Crete. History buffs who find a villa in Greece, therefore, should definitely take in some of the iconic crumbling temples featured heavily on postcards and in tourism brochures but they should also keep their eyes peeled for the incredible reminders of the country’s rich and diverse history that can be found wherever you turn – it would be a shame to miss them! For example, if you plan on booking a vacation rental in Rhodes, then time should be set aside to thoroughly explore and enjoy the Old Town of its capital and its extraordinary medieval elements. 

     Read More

Greece is home to lots of incredible little towns that pack a punch far beyond what one might expect from their size and number of inhabitants but, as a land of immense natural beauty and impossibly rich historic and cultural heritage, even villages you might never have heard of before are quite extraordinary. Take the village of Lindos on the island of Rhodes, for example. With a population of less than four thousand and a relatively compact centre, one might not expect much from seeing the facts of the fishing village laid out on paper but all you have to do is take one look at the place to realise that it is kind of magic. With plenty to see and do in the area, utterly scenic surroundings, and lots of character, those who find a villa in Rhodes and come to spend any time in the village will find themselves quickly and irrevocably in love. 

     Read More

Heraklion is one of Greece's largest cities and is the economic hub of Crete, if you have found a villa in Crete, it will likely be one of the must-see places to plan a day trip to during your time on the island. While not always orderly or neat, it is picturesque in its own way and is, without a doubt, utterly fascinating. In this city, history is everywhere you look and it is home to some of the most important historical sites and institutions in all of Greece, including the Palace of Knossos and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. If you are interested in the grand and rich historical heritage and the impressive ruins for which Greece is so well-known, it is certainly a representative destination for familiarising yourself with this incredible past. One of the best ways to begin delving into to history of Heraklion is to walk the city's ancient walls.     Read More