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Venizelos Graves: A Historical Landmark with Panoramic Views

Visit the Venizelos Graves in Chania for panoramic views, a glimpse into Greek history, and a peaceful park setting. A tribute to Cretan heritage.

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The Venizelos Graves, located on Prophet Elias hill, are the final resting place of Eleftherios Venizelos, a significant Greek politician, and his son Sophocles Venizelos, both former Prime Ministers of Greece. The site offers panoramic views of Chania and the Cretan Sea and includes a charming 15th-century chapel and a monument to Cretan heroism.

A brief summary to Venizelos Graves

  • Agorastaki 4, Chania, 731 33, GR

Local tips

  • Visit during early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting for photos and fewer crowds.
  • Wear comfortable shoes, as the paths can be uneven.
  • Scan the QR codes on-site to learn more about the history and significance of the location.
  • Take some time to enjoy the views of Chania and the surrounding landscape.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Chania city center, take the Chania-Kounoupidiana city bus from 1866 square. Get off at the Venizelos Tombs bus stop. The bus ticket costs approximately €1.70 if purchased beforehand or €2.50 if purchased on the bus. Bus #18 also goes to Venizelos Graves.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Chania city center to the Venizelos Graves costs around €6.50 each way. Taxis are readily available in the city center.

  • Walking

    The Venizelos Graves are approximately 3.5 km from Chania town center, a moderate walk. From the city center, walk east towards the Akrotiri peninsula. Follow the signs to Venizelos Graves. Be prepared for an uphill walk for the final part of the journey.

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Discover more about Venizelos Graves

The Venizelos Graves, situated on the Akrotiri peninsula, 5 km east of Chania, mark a site of historical significance and serene beauty. This is the final resting place of Eleftherios Venizelos (1864-1936), an eminent Greek politician who served as Prime Minister eight times, and his son, Sophocles Venizelos (1894-1964), who also held the office of Prime Minister. Eleftherios Venizelos, a key figure in modern Greek history, chose this location overlooking Chania, the Cretan Sea, and his house in Chalepa as his final resting place. The site offers stunning panoramic views of Chania, the old port with its Egyptian lighthouse, and the island of Thodorou. Visitors can also admire the White Mountains and appreciate the vastness of the modern city. The area is beautifully landscaped with gardens, paved paths, and benches shaded by pine trees, creating a peaceful atmosphere for reflection. In addition to the tombs, the site features the picturesque 15th-century Chapel of Prophet Elias. The chapel's history is intertwined with the Cretan revolution of 1897 when revolutionaries raised the Greek flag at its bell tower. A statue of Spyros Kayales, a Cretan hero, commemorates his act of bravery during the revolution when he used his body as a flagpole to hold the Greek flag aloft amidst bombardment. Visiting the Venizelos Graves provides an opportunity to connect with Greek history and enjoy the natural beauty of Crete. The site is not just a cemetery but a park-like area where visitors can immerse themselves in nature while learning about prominent Cretan statesmen.

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