Kastélli: A Hill Steeped in History

Explore Kastélli, Chania's ancient hill: a journey through Minoan, Venetian, and Ottoman history with ongoing archaeological discoveries.

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Kastélli

Kastélli is a low hill rising above Chania's Venetian harbor, offering a glimpse into the island's past. Inhabited for over 5,000 years, it was the site of ancient Kydonia and later a Byzantine fortress, Venetian headquarters, and Turkish settlement. Though largely destroyed in WWII bombings, excavations reveal Minoan pottery and remnants of past civilizations.

A brief summary to Kastélli

Kanevarou 34, Chania, 731 32, GR
+306974264017

Local tips

Wear comfortable shoes, as exploring the hill involves walking on uneven surfaces.
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat, especially during the summer months.
Combine your visit with a walk around Chania's Old Town and Venetian harbor.

Getting There

Walking

Kastélli is located in the heart of Chania's Old Town, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Venetian harbor, walk east along the waterfront. Turn left onto Kanevarou Street, which leads directly to the top of Kastélli Hill. The walk is uphill but short, taking approximately 5-10 minutes from the harbor. No costs are involved.
Public Transport

If arriving by bus at Chania Bus Station, walk towards the Old Town (approximately 10 minutes). Follow Halidon Street to the Venetian harbor, then turn left onto Kanevarou Street to reach Kastélli. A bus ticket within Zone A costs €1.20 if purchased outside the bus or €2.00 if purchased on the bus. Zone B tickets cost €1.60 and €2.50 respectively.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Chania. A taxi from Chania Bus Station or the city center to Kastélli will cost approximately €5-€8. Ensure the driver is aware of the location, as it's a pedestrian area, and agree on a drop-off point nearby.

Discover more about Kastélli

Kastélli Hill, located east of Chania's harbor, is a historical landmark with a rich and complex past. This strategic location was first inhabited over 5,000 years ago and was the center of the Minoan city of Kydonia. Its proximity to the sea and the fertile Chania plain made it an ideal settlement. Throughout its history, Kastélli has been a coveted site. The Byzantines built a fortress here, incorporating materials from ancient Kydonia. In 1252, the Venetians rebuilt the city walls and organized the city within its boundaries, constructing mansions and a cathedral. The area was known as Castello Vecchio, meaning "Old Castle". Later, the Turks also occupied the hill. Unfortunately, much of Kastélli was destroyed during German bombings in World War II. However, the destruction led to the discovery of Minoan pottery, revealing a major Minoan site beneath the surface. Archaeological excavations have been ongoing since the 1960s, uncovering buildings and artifacts spanning nearly 5,000 years of history. Today, visitors can see ongoing excavations, particularly at Agia Ekaterini Square. While a Minoan palace is believed to have existed nearby, its remains are difficult to excavate due to existing structures.