Kastélli: A Hill Steeped in History

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.