Ancient City of Lato: A Window to Dorian Crete
Explore Lato: Crete's best-preserved Dorian city with stunning views, ancient ruins, and a glimpse into a rich Hellenistic past.
Explore the remarkably preserved ruins of Lato, a significant Dorian city-state dating back to the 7th century BC. Perched atop a strategic hilltop near Kritsa, Lato offers stunning views and a glimpse into ancient Cretan life, showcasing its agora, temples, and defensive structures.
A brief summary to Ancient City of Lato
- Kritsa, 721 00, GR
Local tips
- Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking and climbing on uneven terrain.
- Bring water, especially during the summer months, as there is no drinking water available at the site.
- Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Combine your visit with a trip to the charming village of Kritsa, located just a short drive away.
- Consider a guided tour for a more in-depth understanding of the site's history and significance.
Getting There
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Walking
From the village of Kritsa, the Ancient City of Lato is approximately a 3km walk north. The walk is uphill and takes around 45 minutes to an hour. Follow the signs from Kritsa towards Lato, enjoying the views of the surrounding olive groves.
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Public Transport
The nearest bus stop to Ancient Lato is in Kritsa. Buses run from Agios Nikolaos to Kritsa several times a day. From Kritsa, you can take a taxi to Lato or walk the 3km north. A taxi from Kritsa to Lato will cost approximately €10-€15. The bus from Agios Nikolaos to Kritsa costs around €2.
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Driving
Lato is easily accessible by car from both Agios Nikolaos and Heraklion. The drive from Agios Nikolaos is about 20 minutes, while the drive from Heraklion is about an hour and a half. There is a parking lot located near the entrance to the archaeological site. From Kritsa, follow the signs for approximately 3km. The road winds through olive groves up to the entrance gate.
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