Crete - an insider's view

To me Crete can be considered a slight enigma. I have travelled to many places in Greece where, although the locals are proud of their regional identity, they are first and foremost, Greek. Yet with Crete, the opposite seems to hold fast. Many Cretans consider themselves an independent and different breed of Greek, much hardier and more original in comparison to their mainland cousins. When visiting the island, you will feel this strong sense of cultural identity, but also a huge sense of hospitality. Welcoming guests to the hearth of the house has been at the heart of Cretan life for many years.

To start in Chania is really to see one of the most picturesque locations of the island. The waterfront presents a crescent moon of arid-coloured Venetian buildings which watch over the bustling cafes and tavernas below. The turquoise waters are within touching distance and teeming with shoals of tiny fish. It really is a lovely place to watch the world go by.

I also love the recent history of the town. Step back a few feet into the alleyways and you will discover the Etz Hayyim Synagogue. A place of worship for the small Jewish community for generations, it lay abandoned for decades after these families were cruelly removed by German occupation forces. In recent times, Nikos Stavroulakis - who was born to a Greek Orthodox father and a Jewish mother from Istanbul - decided to dedicate himself to the renovation of the abandoned synagogue. In his words, allowing the synagogue to crumble was a victory to the Nazis. This humbly beautiful building is a wonderful place to seek out for quiet reflection and is part of the fantastic patchwork history of Crete.

To end the tour in Heraklion is a treat. Strolling through the old town, a traveller can witness the change of the history of several different rulers in a matter of steps. One of the best places to get a scale of the city’s past glory is an evening meander along the walls of the Venetian harbour. Being a historian, my favourite place to visit in Heraklion is the astounding Archaeological Museum, however there is something for everyone - this is a city that, despite its smaller size, likes to rival Athens in cosmopolitan attitude and lifestyle. 

We invite you to come with us and explore the delights of Crete for yourself on our 7-night holiday, Greek Orthodox Easter in Crete: Discover History, Nature & Traditions