Chania: A Jewel of Crete

• HelloΓειά σας
  [Yah sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Στην υγειά μας!
  [Stin igia mas]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Πήγαινε μακριά!
  [Pigaine makria!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε γιατρό!
  [Kaleste yatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Ime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na miosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Aurio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οκτώ
  [Okto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (για το ....)
  [Ena isitirio (gia to ....)]

Chania's history dates back to the Minoan civilization, around 3000 BCE to 1450 BCE. The ancient city of Kydonia, referenced in Homer's Odyssey, was located here. Archaeological excavations have uncovered significant artifacts, including remnants of Minoan settlements and ceramics, indicating Chania's importance as a trading hub in ancient times.

During the Classical and Hellenistic periods, Chania flourished as a vibrant city-state. The region was known for its naval prowess and strategic location, which made it a significant player in regional politics and commerce. The city was involved in various alliances and conflicts, including support for the Athenians during the Peloponnesian War.

Chania fell under Roman rule in 69 BCE and subsequently became part of the Byzantine Empire in the 4th century CE. The Roman and Byzantine periods were relatively peaceful times, allowing for the construction of public buildings, fortifications, and churches. The city continued to be a crucial trading center, connecting the eastern and western parts of the Mediterranean.

In 1252, Chania came under Venetian control, marking a period of significant architectural and cultural development. The Venetians fortified the city, building impressive walls and the famous harbor that still stands today. The Old Venetian Harbor, with its lighthouse and arsenals, became a bustling center of maritime trade. Venetian influence is evident in the city's architecture, urban planning, and cultural life.

The Ottoman Empire conquered Chania in 1645, introducing new cultural and architectural elements to the city. Mosques, bathhouses, and fountains were constructed, and the city saw a blend of Ottoman and Venetian styles. Despite periods of unrest and conflict, Chania remained a vital administrative and economic center under Ottoman rule until the late 19th century.

The 19th century was a tumultuous time for Chania, marked by uprisings and a push for independence from Ottoman rule. The city played a crucial role in the Cretan Revolt of 1866-1869. In 1913, after the Balkan Wars, Crete was finally unified with Greece. Chania became the capital of Crete, fostering economic growth and cultural revival until the capital was moved to Heraklion in 1971.

During World War II, Chania was heavily bombed in the Battle of Crete in 1941. The city fell under German occupation, leading to significant hardship for its residents. Many historical buildings were damaged or destroyed. However, the period also showcased the resilience and bravery of the local population, who played a crucial role in the resistance movement.

Following World War II, Chania underwent extensive reconstruction and modernization. The city expanded beyond its historical core, blending old and new elements. Today, Chania is a thriving tourist destination, celebrated for its rich history, cultural heritage, and stunning landscapes. The Old Town and harbor remain central attractions, drawing visitors from around the world.

Chania is located on the northwest coast of the island of Crete in Greece. The nearest airport is Chania International Airport (CHQ), also known as Ioannis Daskalogiannis Airport, which is approximately 14 kilometers from the city center. Direct flights are available from many European cities, especially during the summer season. Alternatively, you can fly into Heraklion International Airport (HER) and take a bus or rent a car for the approximately 2-hour drive to Chania. Ferries from Athens (Piraeus Port) also operate regularly, docking at the port of Souda, about 7 kilometers from Chania city center.

Chania is well-connected by public transportation. The main bus station (KTEL) offers routes to various parts of the island, including Heraklion, Rethymno, and smaller towns and villages. Local buses are also available for travel within the city. Taxis are readily available and can be hailed on the street or booked via phone. For those who prefer more flexibility, car rentals are available at the airport and in the city. Bicycles and scooters can also be rented for a more eco-friendly mode of transport.

The official currency in Greece is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Chania, especially in hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it is advisable to carry some cash for smaller purchases, especially in markets and rural areas. ATMs are plentiful and can be found throughout the city. Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions before you travel to avoid any inconvenience.

Chania is generally a safe destination for tourists, with low crime rates. However, it is advisable to take standard precautions such as keeping an eye on your belongings in crowded areas and avoiding poorly lit streets at night. The Old Town and the Venetian Harbor are popular tourist spots and can get crowded, so be vigilant against pickpockets. Areas with higher crime rates targeting tourists are rare, but always stay aware of your surroundings.

In case of emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number, for immediate assistance. Chania has several hospitals and medical facilities, including the Chania General Hospital. Pharmacies are plentiful and usually have a green cross sign. It is recommended to have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies. For minor health issues, pharmacists can often provide advice and over-the-counter medications.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites. Avoid wearing beachwear or overly revealing clothing in public places. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering churches, cover your shoulders and knees. Public Transport: Do be respectful and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don't eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet people with a handshake or a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good Morning). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes and accept food offerings graciously. Don’t decline hospitality, as it is considered impolite.

To experience Chania like a local, visit the Municipal Market of Chania (Agora) where you can buy fresh produce and traditional Cretan goods. Take a stroll through the narrow streets of the Old Town and explore the Venetian Harbor. Engage with locals, who are often friendly and willing to share stories about the city's history and culture. Don't miss the chance to try local delicacies such as Dakos, Kalitsounia, and Raki. For a unique experience, visit the nearby village of Theriso, known for its history and beautiful natural surroundings.