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Bunker Ruins of Platanias: A WWII Relic

Explore the historic Bunker Ruins in Platanias, Crete, offering a poignant glimpse into World War II and the Battle of Crete.

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The Bunker Ruins in Platanias, Crete, are remnants of German military architecture from World War II. These weathered bunkers, strategically positioned near the coast, offer a glimpse into the island's wartime history and the Battle of Crete.

A brief summary to Bunker ruins

  • Unnamed Road, Platanias, 730 14, GR

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking on uneven terrain around the ruins.
  • Bring a camera to capture the historical site and the scenic views of the coast.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby War Shelter museum for a more in-depth historical experience.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the center of Platanias, walk towards the beach on Agiou Nikolaou Street. Continue to the beach promenade, turn left, and walk for about 15 minutes. Then, turn onto the 'Unnamed Road' leading to the Bunker Ruins. Walk for about 5 minutes to reach the entrance on your right. There are no costs associated with this approach.

  • Public Transport

    Take the Chania City Bus from Chania to Kolymbari. Get off at Platanias. From the bus stop, walk towards the beach, then follow the walking directions to the ruins. A single bus fare costs approximately €1.10 - €1.80.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi from Platanias center to the Unnamed Road near the bunker ruins. The ride is short, and the approximate cost is €8-€12. From there, walk the remaining distance to the ruins.

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Discover more about Bunker ruins

The Bunker Ruins in Platanias stand as a reminder of the area's historical significance during World War II. These remnants of military architecture offer visitors a unique opportunity to reflect on the events that unfolded here. Strategically located near the coast, the bunkers were part of a defensive line designed to protect against invasions. Exploring the crumbling structures reveals stories of resilience and survival. The eerie silence, often punctuated by the sound of waves, creates a contemplative atmosphere. The war shelter was constructed by German troops in 1942, consisting of an underground complex of booths and tunnels used to store ammunition and military supplies. Local forced labor dug a 120m long underground tunnel in six months. The location, below the village's main church, provided natural protection from air bombings. Sixty years later, the Platanias Church Committee and citizens decided to reconstruct the war shelter as a small World War II museum in memory of the Battle of Crete. Visitors can see exhibits abandoned by the Germans, including Nazi uniforms, helmets, furniture, and containers.

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