Exploring the Rich History of Crete with Family

Stepping Back in Time in Crete

Today marked the beginning of our Cretan adventure, a journey I've eagerly anticipated. As a librarian specializing in ancient Greek history, the opportunity to walk in the footsteps of the Minoans, to witness their artistry and ingenuity firsthand, fills me with an unparalleled sense of excitement. And to share this experience with Hans-Peter and Sophia makes it all the more special.

Our day began early, fueled by anticipation and a hearty breakfast at Peskesi in Heraklion. The restaurant is known for its authentic Cretan cuisine and farm-to-table philosophy. It was the perfect way to prepare for a day of historical exploration. The Cretan diet, with its emphasis on fresh, local ingredients, is something I've always admired. It’s a cuisine deeply rooted in the land and its traditions. We savored every bite, knowing that we were starting our day with a taste of true Cretan culture.

First on our itinerary was the magnificent Knossos Palace. As we drove towards the site, I could feel the weight of history pressing down on me. Knossos, the heart of Minoan civilization, a place of myths and legends. I was eager to see it with my own eyes. The drive itself was beautiful, with the Cretan landscape unfolding before us. Olive groves, vineyards, and rolling hills painted a picture of timeless beauty.

Arriving at Knossos, I was immediately struck by the sheer scale of the place. Even in January, the site was bustling with visitors, eager to explore the labyrinthine corridors and chambers. I could only imagine what it must have been like during its heyday, a vibrant center of power and culture. We wandered through the ruins, marveling at the reconstructed frescoes and the ingenuity of the Minoan architects. Sophia was particularly fascinated by the legend of the Minotaur, and Hans-Peter, ever the pragmatist, was impressed by the advanced plumbing system. I found myself lost in thought, imagining the lives of the people who once walked these very paths. The palace is typically open from 8 am to 5:30 pm during the winter months, so we made sure to arrive early to make the most of our visit.


Discover the enchanting ruins of Knossos Palace, the heart of Minoan civilization, on a captivating journey through ancient Greek history.

To walk through Knossos is to step into a world of myth and history, where the echoes of an ancient civilization still resonate.

The Throne Room, with its alabaster seat, was particularly evocative. I could almost picture King Minos holding court, dispensing justice and receiving tribute. The frescoes, vibrant even after thousands of years, offered a glimpse into the Minoan world, their love of nature, and their sophisticated artistic sensibilities. Sophia peppered me with questions about the myths and legends associated with Knossos, and I did my best to answer, drawing on my knowledge of ancient Greek mythology.

After a few hours of exploring Knossos, we were ready for lunch. We headed back to Heraklion and found a delightful spot called Arismari & Varsamo. This restaurant is known for its traditional Cretan dishes and its use of locally sourced ingredients. We enjoyed a delicious meal of fresh seafood and hearty salads, all washed down with local wine. It was the perfect way to refuel after our morning of exploration.

In the afternoon, we visited the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, a treasure trove of Minoan artifacts. The museum houses an unparalleled collection of Minoan art and artifacts, including finds from Knossos and other Minoan sites across Crete. It was a truly awe-inspiring experience to see these objects up close, to examine the intricate details and to marvel at the skill of the Minoan artisans. The museum is open in winter from Monday, Wednesday to Sunday: 8:30-15:30, and Tuesday: 10:00 - 17:00, so we had plenty of time to explore.


Explore the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, home to Crete's finest Minoan artifacts and a gateway to the island's ancient history.

The Phaistos Disc, with its enigmatic symbols, captivated my attention. I spent a long time studying it, trying to decipher its secrets. The Snake Goddess figurines, with their elegant forms and powerful symbolism, were also particularly striking. Sophia was fascinated by the jewelry, especially the gold pendants and necklaces. The museum shop was a must-see, offering a variety of publications related to the exhibits, as well as replicas and souvenirs inspired by Greek cultural heritage. It was the perfect place to find a memento of our visit.

As the day drew to a close, we decided to do some shopping. We stopped by the Greek Unique Concept Gift Store, a charming shop offering a wide range of handcrafted items and souvenirs. I wanted to find something special to remind me of our trip, and I was delighted to discover a beautiful piece of ceramic art, inspired by Minoan designs. Sophia chose a small, hand-painted owl, a symbol of wisdom and knowledge.


Discover the essence of Greece with unique souvenirs at the Greek Unique Concept Gift Store in Rethymno.

For dinner, we chose The Five Restaurant. It promised Mediterranean cuisine with international inspiration, and an enchanting sunset view. We were not disappointed. The food was delicious, the service was impeccable, and the sunset was indeed breathtaking. It was the perfect way to end a perfect day.


Experience exquisite dining at The Five Restaurant in Chania, where local flavors meet breathtaking waterfront views.

As I sit here now, writing this blog post, I am filled with a sense of gratitude. Today was a day of discovery, a day of connection, and a day of wonder. I am so grateful to have had the opportunity to experience the magic of Crete with my family. Tomorrow, we plan to explore more of Heraklion, including the Venetian Harbour, the Morosini Fountain, and the Rocca a Mare Fortress. We might even stop by the Sinagogi cocktail bar for a drink in the evening. I am already looking forward to it.

Before drifting off to sleep, I reflect on the importance of these experiences. As a librarian, I spend my days surrounded by books, immersed in the stories of the past. But there is something truly special about seeing these stories come to life, about walking in the footsteps of the people who shaped our world. It is a reminder that history is not just a collection of facts and dates, but a living, breathing narrative that continues to resonate in the present.

Crete, with its rich history and stunning beauty, has already captured my heart. I can't wait to see what tomorrow brings. I think I'll need to remember to pack that light jacket I forgot, though. January evenings can get a bit cool, even in Greece!

I am reminded of a quote by Nikos Kazantzakis, a famous Cretan writer:

Happy is the man, I thought, who, before dying, has the good fortune to sail the Aegean sea.

Indeed, I feel incredibly fortunate to be here, experiencing the beauty and history of this magical island.