Chania town
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The city of Chania, the capital of the region, stands out for its charm and elegance. It is divided into the old town and the new town.
The so-called new town is a modern urban center with all the amenities of a big city. Yet, the experienced eye of a traveler can still discern traces of its old-world grandeur.
Walking through the picturesque streets of the old town and observing the architecture of its neighborhoods, one can sense the marks left by the civilizations that shaped the region¢s history and the culture of its people.
Strolling through Chania feels like stepping into a fairy tale. At every corner, history greets you, and around every turn, a “hero” invites you to continue exploring…
The old town of Chania is built around the Kastelli hill, on the ruins of ancient Kydonia. It is surrounded by historic neighborhoods where people of different nationalities, cultures, and religions lived. The monuments they left behind give Chania its unique character.
In the Topanas district, located in the northern part of the city, wealthy Greeks lived during the Ottoman period. Walking along the cobblestone streets, you can see old Venetian mansions alongside Turkish houses. Here, you will also find the Firkas Fortress, and the streets feature shops with traditional handmade textiles and folk art.
Another interesting area is the Jewish Quarter, home to the Synagogue, the Church of Saint Francis, and the Archaeological Museum of the city.
Next is the Syntirivani district, named after the fountain built there by the Turks. A notable landmark is the Hassan Pasha Mosque, while across the street lies the waterfront with the Venetian Lighthouse.
On the eastern side of the harbor is the Kastelli district, where the acropolis of ancient Kydonia once stood. Archaeological evidence shows that this area has been continuously inhabited since Minoan times.
Nearby is the Splantzia district, formerly a Turkish neighborhood, home to the Church of Saint Nicholas and the Byzantine Church of Saint Rokkos.
Outside the walls of the old town, on the eastern side, is the historic Koum-Kapi district. In the 18th century, Bedouin workers settled here and built a small village. Today, it is a popular hangout for young people.
In the Chalepa district, you can find some of the most significant monuments of modern history, such as the house of Eleftherios Venizelos and the palace of Prince George.
Chania offers great interest both for sightseeing its numerous monuments and for the wide variety of entertainment and activities available. Theaters, cinemas, bars, and live music venues ensure there is something for everyone.
Every year, Chania attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. Its tourism infrastructure guarantees dream vacations for every traveler, from state-of-the-art luxury hotels for those seeking high-end experiences to rental apartments and studios for those looking for more economical options.
The beaches of the region are a terrestrial paradise, waiting to be discovered…
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