G.N.T.O. - Greek Islands

The Prefecture of Heraklio lies between Lassithi and Rethimnon. Its land follows the pattern of the rest of Crete; mountains - bare at places, filled with cypress and oak trees elsewhere - plains, the most important one being that of Messara, fields covered with fruit trees of all varieties, sandy beaches and beautiful hidden coves. The terrain makes for interesting geographic formations, such as the cave of Ilithias. This part of Crete has been inhabited since antiquity and it is the richest part of the island in terms of archaeological sites, like: Knossos, Phaestos, Mallia and the exhibits that can be viewed in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklio. The rule of the Venetians and Turks is also evident here with the Loggia, the fortification of Heraklio as well as numerous castles and Moslem Temples throughout the area. The prefecture is also home to unique samples of ecclesiastic architecture and the monasteries of Vrontissio, and Varsamonero as well as the church of Ag. Titos must be visited. Not to be missed is also the grave of famous Greek author Nikos Kazatzakis.

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