Family Adventure in Crete: A 15-Day Cultural Exploration

A Day of Discovery in Crete

Today was a day of delving into Crete's rich past and vibrant present. From exploring the ruins of Ancient Eleutherna to wandering through the artisan village of Margarites, every moment was filled with beauty and a sense of connection to the island's enduring spirit. I feel so fortunate to share these experiences with Hans and Sofia, watching their faces light up with each new discovery. It's moments like these that make our family trips so incredibly special.


Explore Ancient Eleutherna, a historical gem in Crete, revealing the secrets of the Minoan civilization amidst stunning landscapes.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at Myrtios Traditional Taverna. The aroma of freshly baked bread and strong Greek coffee filled the air, a promising start to our explorations. It's amazing how a simple meal can set the tone for the adventures ahead. I savored the flavors, knowing that today we would be uncovering layers of history and artistry.


Experience authentic Greek cuisine at Myrtios Traditional Taverna in Old Hersonissos – where every meal tells a story.

We drove towards Ancient Eleutherna, a city-state that thrived from the Dark Ages to Byzantine times. As we approached, the landscape transformed, revealing a rugged, mountainous terrain that spoke of centuries of stories etched into the very stones beneath our feet. The air was crisp and carried the scent of wild herbs, a reminder of the untamed beauty of Crete.

Exploring Ancient Eleutherna was like stepping back in time. The site is perched on a narrow spur of Mount Ida, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding countryside. Sofia was immediately captivated, running ahead to explore the ancient ruins. Hans, ever the engineer, was fascinated by the structural remains, pointing out the ingenuity of the ancient builders. I felt a deep sense of awe, imagining life in this city centuries ago.

The history of Eleutherna is fascinating. It dates back to the 9th century BC, a Dorian city strategically located between Kydonia (modern-day Chania) and Knossos. Its location made it a natural crossroads, contributing to its prosperity as a center of culture and commerce. The city saw periods of growth under Roman rule, marked by luxurious villas and public buildings, until a catastrophic earthquake in 365 CE. Even after the earthquake, Eleutherna remained a significant Christian center, with a large basilica constructed in the mid-seventh century.

As we walked through the site, we saw remnants of the Eleutherna Tower, which once served as a defensive stronghold. Sofia peppered us with questions, eager to learn about the people who once lived here. I tried my best to explain the significance of each ruin, weaving tales of ancient battles and everyday life. It's incredible how history can come alive when you're standing on the very ground where it unfolded.

The past is never dead. It's not even past.

One of the highlights was seeing the sculpture “Timeless Encounters”. This sculpture, depicting an imaginary meeting of three emblematic figures of Crete: Dominikos Theotokopoulos (El Greco), Vincenzo Kornaro, and Nikos Kazantzakis, was crafted by artist Mrs. Aspasia Papadoperaki. It served as a powerful reminder of Crete's enduring artistic and intellectual legacy. Sofia was particularly intrigued by El Greco, the famous painter, and we promised to visit some of his works later in our trip.


Explore the artistry of 'Timeless Encounters', a stunning sculpture in Heraklion that pays tribute to Greece's literary legends.

After immersing ourselves in ancient history, we drove to Margarites, a village renowned for its pottery traditions. The drive itself was a treat, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the Cretan landscape. As we approached Margarites, we could see the village nestled in the foothills of Mt. Psiloritis, its terracotta rooftops gleaming in the sunlight.

Margarites is a picturesque village, famous for its pottery workshops that have been passed down through generations. As we walked through the village, we could hear the rhythmic sounds of potters at work, shaping clay into beautiful and functional pieces. The narrow streets were lined with shops displaying a vibrant array of ceramics, from traditional Minoan-inspired designs to modern creations.

We visited Spirit of Greece, a charming shop filled with unique pottery and crafts. The owner greeted us warmly, sharing stories of the village's history and the art of pottery. Sofia was fascinated by the potter's wheel, watching intently as a craftsman transformed a lump of clay into an elegant vase. I couldn't resist purchasing a few pieces, each one a tangible reminder of our visit to this artisan village.


Explore the Spirit of Greece in Heraklion: Unique souvenirs capturing the essence of Cretan culture and artistry for every traveler.

The pottery tradition in Margarites dates back centuries, with evidence of ceramic production found in nearby archaeological sites. The village's location, with access to high-quality clay deposits and proximity to trade routes, fostered the development of this craft. The potters here still practice specialized earthenware techniques, some of which date back to Minoan times. It’s amazing to think that these traditions have survived for so long, connecting the present to the ancient past.

Lunch was a delightful experience at Herbs' Garden in Margarites. The taverna was nestled in a lush garden, filled with the fragrant aroma of herbs and flowers. We savored traditional Cretan dishes, made with fresh, local ingredients. The meal was a celebration of the island's culinary heritage, a perfect complement to our day of exploration.


Experience exquisite Mediterranean cuisine with stunning views at Herbs' Garden in Heraklion.

In the evening, we had dinner at Thigaterra - The Art of Slow Food. This restaurant is dedicated to the Slow Food movement, emphasizing the use of pure, local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The atmosphere was warm and inviting, and the food was simply divine. We enjoyed a leisurely meal, savoring each bite and reflecting on the day's adventures. It was the perfect way to end our exploration of Crete's cultural and historical treasures.


Discover Thigaterra: A premier destination for authentic Greek slow food in Ag. Dimitrios, celebrating local flavors with every dish.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Kamares and Labyrinth Caves, venturing into the depths of Crete's natural wonders. I'm excited to see what mysteries and adventures await us, and I know Sofia is eager to continue our exploration of this beautiful island.

As I write this, I'm filled with a sense of gratitude for the experiences we've had today. Crete is a place that captivates the senses and nourishes the soul. It's a place where history, art, and nature come together in perfect harmony. I feel incredibly fortunate to be able to share this journey with my family, creating memories that will last a lifetime. I am looking forward to tomorrow's adventures, and the Swing Thing bar in the evening!

The warmth of the Cretan people, their hospitality and pride in their culture, is truly inspiring. It reminds me of the spirit of Teruel, my hometown in Spain, where traditions are also cherished and passed down through generations. Perhaps that's why I feel such a strong connection to this island, a sense of belonging that transcends borders and languages. It's a reminder that, no matter where we come from, we are all connected by our shared human experience. And that is something truly special to celebrate.