Exploring the Rich History of Crete with Family

A Day of Discovery in Heraklion

Today, I immersed myself and my family in the captivating world of Crete's history and natural wonders. As a librarian specializing in ancient Greek history, I was particularly excited to explore the museums in Heraklion. It was a day filled with learning, reflection, and delicious food, offering a deeper understanding of this enchanting island.

Our day began with a delightful breakfast at Herbs' Garden. Located on a rooftop with stunning views of the Venetian harbor, the setting was as enchanting as the food was delicious. I savored the traditional Cretan flavors, a perfect start to a day dedicated to exploring the island's rich heritage. The hotel's roof garden is home to one of the most impressive rooftop restaurants with a sea view to Koules Venetian Sea Fortress. The dishes display an exquisite mix of traditional Greek cuisine with modern elements, including plenty of vegetarian choices prepared with the utmost attention to detail.


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

After breakfast, we headed to the Natural History Museum of Crete. This museum offered a fascinating glimpse into the island's diverse ecosystems and geological history. Sophia was particularly thrilled by the earthquake simulator, which allowed us to experience the sensation of an earthquake in a safe and controlled environment. I found the exhibits on the Mediterranean Sea's biodiversity and the reconstructions of various ecosystems incredibly informative. It's amazing to see how Crete's natural environment has evolved over time. The museum has a vast collection of exhibits spread across five floors. The ground floor features introductory digital and physical displays of the Mediterranean Sea's biodiversity, as well as reconstructions of a typical maquis shrubland ecosystem and the deciduous forests of the northern limits of the Mediterranean's mountainous areas.


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

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

Next on our itinerary was the Historical Museum of Crete. This museum provided a comprehensive overview of Cretan history from the early Christian era to the present day. As we walked through the exhibits, I was struck by the island's resilience and the enduring spirit of its people. The museum houses a remarkable collection of artifacts, including Byzantine art, Venetian and Ottoman relics, and exhibits related to the Battle of Crete during World War II. The Nikos Kazantzakis Collection was particularly moving, offering insights into the life and work of this celebrated Cretan author. The Historical Museum of Crete (H.M.C.) presents a comprehensive view of Cretan history from early Christian times to the present day. The original goal of those founding the Historical Museum of Crete was to collect and preserve valuable archaeological, ethnographic and historical material deriving from the medieval and modern periods in Cretan history.


Uncover the captivating history of Crete at the Historical Museum, featuring artifacts from ancient civilizations to modern times in the heart of Heraklion.

One of the highlights of the museum was seeing the two El Greco paintings, The Baptism of Christ and View of Mount Sinai. Knowing that these were the only two works by the famous Cretan painter on display in Crete made the experience even more special. Hans-Peter, despite his usual focus on software engineering, was also captivated by the intricate details in the model of mid-17th century Chandax (Heraklion), which vividly depicted the city during its peak under Venetian rule.

For lunch, we chose Arismari, Cretan Creative Cuisine, a restaurant recommended for its refined Cretan dishes and fresh ingredients. It was a delightful experience, with each dish showcasing the unique flavors of the island. Sophia enjoyed the kids' menu, while Hans-Peter and I savored the local specialties. I particularly enjoyed the sea bass, which was cooked to perfection. Arismari is dedicated to showcasing the rich culinary traditions of Crete. Using pure, natural local products, our restaurant creates dishes that celebrate the flavors and heritage of the Cretan land. The word Arismari comes from the local dialect and is the herb rosemary, which grows in our country and aromatize some of our recipes.


Discover authentic Cretan cuisine at Arismari in Chania - where tradition meets creativity in every dish.

In the evening, after a day of immersing ourselves in history and culture, we decided to unwind at the Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar. The bar offered a cozy atmosphere and an impressive selection of cocktails. While Sophia enjoyed a non-alcoholic beverage, Hans-Peter and I sampled some of the local concoctions. It was the perfect way to relax and reflect on the day's experiences. Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar offers a great variety of cocktails and drinks, a cosy atmosphere and music. The bar is situated in a historic building that dates back to the 16th century. It has a charming interior with stone walls, wooden beams and colourful lights. It also has an outdoor seating area where guests can enjoy the view of the old town.


Experience the vibrant nightlife at Hunky Funky Cocktail Bar in Rethymno, where innovative cocktails meet a lively atmosphere for an unforgettable evening.

Finally, we had dinner at Georgia's Traditional Taverna, a restaurant known for its authentic Greek cuisine and welcoming atmosphere. The food was hearty and flavorful, and the service was exceptional. We tried several traditional dishes, including stuffed zucchini flowers and imam without feta, all of which were delicious. It was a fitting end to a day dedicated to exploring the heart and soul of Crete. Georgia is welcoming and knows what veganism is with quite a few choices on the menu. A must try!


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

As I sit here reflecting on the day, I am filled with a sense of gratitude for the opportunity to share these experiences with my family. Crete has a way of captivating the senses and stirring the soul. Tomorrow, we will be visiting the Herakleion Central Market and Georgiadis Park, before heading to Chania. I am excited to explore more of what this beautiful island has to offer.

The Herakleion Central Market is a bustling hub where locals and tourists alike gather to buy fresh produce, local cheeses, and Cretan honey. The market is a feast for the senses, with vibrant colors, enticing aromas, and the lively chatter of vendors and shoppers. It's a great place to sample local delicacies and pick up some souvenirs. Georgiadis Park, on the other hand, offers a tranquil escape from the city's hustle and bustle. The park is a verdant oasis, with lush greenery, shady trees, and peaceful walking paths. It's a perfect spot for a leisurely stroll or a picnic lunch.

Our final dinner will be at TAMAM RESTAURANT CHANIA, where I hope to sample some of the local seafood dishes. I've heard that Chania is a beautiful city with a rich history and vibrant culture, and I'm excited to explore its Venetian harbor and charming Old Town.

As our trip nears its end, I am reminded of the importance of embracing new experiences and cherishing the moments we share with our loved ones. Crete has given us memories that we will treasure for a lifetime, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have explored this enchanting island with my family.

On our final day, before we leave this magical island, we will stop by Spirit of Greece, a shop known for its unique selection of local crafts and souvenirs. I'm hoping to find a few special items to remind us of our time here. Perhaps a piece of pottery or a handwoven textile. I believe that bringing home a tangible reminder of our travels will help us to keep the spirit of Crete alive in our hearts, long after we've returned to our daily routines in Leipzig.

I am already looking forward to our next adventure, wherever it may take us. For now, I will savor the memories of Crete and the lessons it has taught me about history, culture, and the importance of family.