On the island of Crete, 15 km South of Heraklion, at the foot of the sacred mount is a small picturesque town of Archanes. The history of the settlement leads from the Neolithic period, and in ancient times was an important financial centre in the region. The archaeological site Archanes and its environs showed the existence here of the Minoan civilization.

Archanes is a picturesque gorges, hills, mountains, fertile valley with beautiful olive groves and vineyards, a large number of ponds, rare species of flora and fauna. Interesting and the architecture of the city, where neoclassical tradition are perfectly combined with Venetian splendor. In Archanes and the surrounding area you can visit the different churches and chapels, museums, ancient cemetery (necropolis fourni), ruins of the Palace of king Minos, who were found right in the centre of the city, the gorge of Agia Irini, where the Venetian aqueduct, built by General Morosini, intended for the supply of Heraklion, and more.

In the centre is the Church of Panagia with a white bell tower and a beautiful collection of icons of the 16th century. In the Church of Agia Triada (Holy Trinity) on the outskirts of the city you can admire the ancient Byzantine frescoes of the 14th century, and in the South of the city is the Church of Asomatos in honor of St. Michael also with excellent frescoes of the 14th century. Famous for its ancient frescoes and the Church of St. Paraskeva, which, unfortunately, are not in such good condition. Definitely worth a visit and the Archaeological Museum.

Archanes is one of the most important wine regions of Crete. Famous wines of Archanes and Armande are prepared according to unique ancient recipes. The cultivation of grapes and olives is 96% of the total agricultural production of the region.

Interesting attractions, cozy cafes and taverns with traditional Greek food and comfortable hotels will make your stay in Archanes interesting and memorable.