Family Adventure in Crete: A 15-Day Cultural Exploration

Echoes of Knossos and Nature's Wonders

Today was a day of diving deep into Crete's rich past and vibrant present. From the ancient corridors of Knossos Palace to the fascinating exhibits of the Natural History Museum of Crete, it was a journey that truly brought the island's history and natural beauty to life. I was particularly excited to share these experiences with Hans and Sofia, knowing their curious minds would revel in the discoveries that awaited us.


Discover Knossos Palace, the ancient Minoan civilization's heart, with stunning frescoes and intricate architecture in a breathtaking open-air museum.

Our day began with a hearty breakfast at To Pigadi Restaurant. The setting, nestled in a 16th-century Venetian building, was simply enchanting. We savored traditional Cretan dishes, with the rabbit stifado being a particular highlight. Sofia, ever the adventurous eater, even tried a bit of the local cheese, declaring it 'interesting'! The friendly staff and the beautiful courtyard made it a perfect start to our day of exploration.


Experience authentic Mediterranean cuisine at To Pigadi Restaurant in Rethymno, where every dish celebrates Cretan flavors with fresh ingredients.

With our bellies full, we set off for Knossos Palace. As a librarian specializing in historical archives, I've always been captivated by ancient civilizations, and Knossos, considered Europe's oldest city, held a special allure. The drive there was scenic, with the landscape unfolding into a tapestry of olive groves and rolling hills. Even though the weather forecast predicted sunshine, the sky was overcast, but the temperature was pleasant, perfect for exploring.

Arriving at Knossos, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the site. The palace, a complex labyrinth of rooms and corridors, sprawled across the landscape. I could almost hear the echoes of Minoan life, the bustling of courtiers, and the murmur of ancient rituals. Sofia was wide-eyed, her imagination already running wild with tales of King Minos and the Minotaur.

To walk through Knossos is to step into a living story, where myth and history intertwine to create an unforgettable experience.

We spent hours wandering through the ruins, marveling at the vibrant frescoes and the ingenious architectural designs. Hans, with his engineering mind, was fascinated by the advanced drainage systems and the multi-story buildings. Sofia, of course, was most intrigued by the legend of the Labyrinth, peppering me with questions about the Minotaur and Theseus. I did my best to answer, drawing on my knowledge of Greek mythology and history.

The Palace of Knossos, dating back to around 1900 BCE, was the core of Minoan society. The complex was a central hub for administration, religious rituals, and community gatherings. The palace walls feature numerous frescoes and murals, depicting religious rituals, nature, and everyday Minoan life. These paintings reveal the deep connection the ancient Minoans had with their environment and religious beliefs. The Throne Room with its gypsum throne and benches to accommodate sixteen persons, the central courtyard, the theater, and the royal chambers, paint a portrait of Knossos as a forum of elaborate rituals and extraordinary historical occurrences.

After immersing ourselves in the ancient world, we headed back to Heraklion for lunch at Georgia's Traditional Taverna. This charming, homely restaurant was just a short walk from the lake. The cozy and relaxing ambience made us feel at home. We enjoyed a selection of traditional Greek dishes, including the stuffed zucchini flowers, which were absolutely divine. The staff was incredibly welcoming, making our dining experience even more enjoyable.


Experience authentic Greek flavors at Georgia's Traditional Taverna in Kournas - a culinary haven amidst Crete’s stunning landscapes.

Our afternoon was dedicated to the Natural History Museum of Crete. I had read that the museum was undergoing renovations, with a temporary closure spanning from late April to the end of May, but I was hoping that at least some exhibits would be open. Fortunately, the museum was indeed open, though some areas were under construction. This museum demonstrates with an impressive manner the natural environment of eastern Mediterranean area with special emphasis on Greece and Crete.


Discover the rich biodiversity and geological history of Crete at the Natural History Museum, a must-visit attraction in Heraklion for nature lovers.

Sofia was particularly excited about the Mega-Dioramas, realistic representations of ecosystems found in the Eastern Mediterranean region. She also loved the Live Museum, with its small-scale aquariums and terrariums housing living animals. I was fascinated by the fossils' section, marveling at the ancient creatures that once roamed this island. The museum provided a comprehensive overview of Crete's natural history, from its geological formations to its diverse flora and fauna.

As the day drew to a close, we treated ourselves to a delightful dinner at Thigaterra - The Art of Slow Food. This restaurant focuses on the slow food movement, celebrating local ingredients and traditional cooking methods. The cozy atmosphere, adorned with fresh flowers, was incredibly inviting. The menu featured an array of mouthwatering dishes, highlighting the best of Cretan cuisine. We savored every bite, appreciating the dedication and passion that went into creating such exquisite food. Hans and Sofia were equally impressed, declaring it one of the best meals we've had so far.


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

To end the day, we ventured out to Sinagogi cocktail bar. Housed in a former synagogue, the bar offers inventive cocktails and a relaxing courtyard. With its unique atmosphere, it was the perfect place to unwind and reflect on the day's adventures. The music was groovy and inviting, enhancing the overall experience. Sipping on my cocktail, I couldn't help but feel grateful for the opportunity to share these incredible experiences with my family.


Discover Sinagogi Cocktail Bar in Chania, where innovative cocktails meet a vibrant nightlife experience amidst charming surroundings.

Tomorrow, we plan to explore the Rocca a Mare Fortress and relax on Skinaria Beach. I'm looking forward to another day of discovery and adventure in this beautiful island. The blend of history and relaxation is exactly what we need to recharge and create lasting memories.

Crete continues to surprise and delight us at every turn. It's a place where ancient history meets modern life, where natural beauty abounds, and where the warmth of the people makes you feel like you're truly home. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings!

As I reflect on our day, I'm reminded of a quote by Nikos Kazantzakis, a famous Cretan writer:

In order to see clearly, perhaps it is advisable to look at the world through the lens of history.

And today, we certainly did just that.

Until tomorrow!