 Ierapetra
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Ierapetra is a beautiful and distinguished town, renowned for its rich history and modern tourist facilities. Located on the southern coast of Lasithi, 35 km from Agios Nikolaos, it faces the Libyan Sea, earning it the nickname “The Nymph of the Libyan Sea.” Remarkably, Ierapetra is the southernmost town in the European Union. The town is built on the site of the ancient city of Ierapytna, which flourished in the 2nd century BC.
Its unparalleled natural beauty, mild climate, vast beaches with crystal-clear waters, notable historical monuments, and abundant entertainment options make Ierapetra an ideal vacation destination.
A landmark of the town is the Kales Fortress, situated on the southern pier of the old harbor. Built in the early 13th century by the Venetians, it remains in remarkably good condition. The fortress was originally constructed to protect the residents from pirate attacks. When the town fell under Ottoman rule in 1647, the fortress underwent several modifications, but its Venetian character was preserved. The current name “Kales” comes from the Turkish word “Kule,” meaning tower.
Ierapetra is also famous for its many Byzantine churches. Among them, the metropolitan church of Saint George, the town¢s patron saint, stands out. This basilica features a central dome surrounded by smaller domes, which were constructed in 1856 using cedar wood. Another historic church is Panagia tou Kale, a small chapel located opposite the fortress gate, which served as the place of worship for the town¢s ruler during the Byzantine period.
Other must-see churches include the Church of the Transfiguration of Christ, also known as Afendis Christos or Sotiras, dating back to the 14th century and located west of the fortress, and the Church of Saint Nicholas, said to have been built by four sailors named Nikolis.
Ierapetra¢s beaches impress visitors with their natural beauty and pristine waters. Despite the area¢s popularity with tourists, most of the beaches remain unspoiled, preserving their authentic charm. The town¢s own sandy beach is ideal for swimming and relaxation, while nearby beaches such as Gra-Lygia, Myrtos, and Makry Gialos, all awarded the Blue Flag, offer breathtaking coastal escapes.
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