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Byzantine Walls of Chania: A Historical Fortress

Explore the ancient Byzantine Walls of Chania, a window into the city's layered history and enduring resilience.

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The Byzantine Walls of Chania are the remnants of the city's original fortifications, built between the 6th and 7th centuries AD on the foundations of older Hellenistic walls. These walls, constructed with materials from ancient Kydonia, offer a glimpse into Chania's layered past.

A brief summary to Byzantine Walls

  • Rianou 6, Chania, 731 32, GR

Local tips

  • Explore the sections of the wall along Sifaka Street to see the ancient stones and construction techniques.
  • Combine your visit with a walk through the nearby Kastelli district to further explore Chania's historical layers.
  • Look for the remains of the wall integrated into modern buildings, a testament to the city's continuous habitation.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Byzantine Walls are located in the heart of Chania's Old Town, easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Venetian Harbor, walk inland towards the Kastelli district. The walls are visible along various streets, including Sifaka Street. No costs are associated with accessing the walls.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus from other parts of Crete, disembark at Chania's central bus station. From there, it's approximately a 15-20 minute walk to the Old Town and the Byzantine Walls. Local bus fares within Chania are around €1.10 - €1.70.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Chania. A taxi from the central bus station or other locations in Chania to the Old Town will cost approximately €5-€10. Be sure to confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

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Discover more about Byzantine Walls

The Byzantine Walls of Chania stand as a testament to the city's long and storied history. Originally constructed during the Byzantine era between the 6th and 7th centuries AD, these walls were built upon the foundations of even earlier Hellenistic fortifications. The Byzantines sought to protect the city, then known as Kydonia, from Arab raids. The walls were primarily built using materials reclaimed from the ruins of ancient Kydonia, showcasing a practical approach to construction in that era. The structure of the wall is irregular, featuring straight sections interspersed with small rectangular and polygonal towers. In some areas, the wall integrates with the natural rock formations, while in others, it provides complete coverage. Four gates once punctuated the wall, though these have since been demolished. The main gates were located on the western side towards Syntrivaniou Square and on the eastern side at the intersection of Canevaros and Daskalogianni streets. As the city expanded, the walls eventually became less critical for defense. During the Venetian period, new fortifications were constructed, and the Byzantine Walls gradually fell into disrepair. Today, sections of the wall are still visible, particularly along Sifaka Street, offering a tangible link to Chania's Byzantine past. Exploring the remains of the Byzantine Walls provides a unique perspective on the city's evolution and the diverse influences that have shaped its identity.

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