Chania is the second largest city in Crete. It is famous for its beautiful buildings from the Venetian times, rich nightlife and interesting museums. In its vicinity there are beaches popular with holidaymakers.
The city in its present shape was founded by the Venetians in the 13th century on the site of the ancient Kydonia settlement, which existed already in the Minoan times. From the 17th century it was under Turkish rule, and in 1913 it was incorporated into Greece along with the whole of Crete.
The turbulent fate of Chania is reflected in its buildings. The most attractive place for tourists in the old part of Chania is the Old Venetian Harbor. There are colorful Italian-style houses around the quay where fishing and excursion boats are moored. There are now numerous taverns, bars and restaurants.
In the vicinity of the port, there is the Old Town, where elements of Venetian and Turkish architecture mix. There are, among others Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Church of St. Nicholas, the Church of the Apostles Peter and Paul and the Mosque of Janissaries.
Both in the Venetian and Turkish times, Chania was fortified with numerous defensive structures. To this day, among others, Bastion of Sabbionara, Bastion of St. Nicholas Molos, Bastiona San Salvador, guardhouse and the remains of the city walls.
A big attraction of Chania are the local museums, including the Archaeological Museum and the Maritime Museum. You can also visit the Folklore Museum and the Ancient Shipbuilding Museum. On the other hand, parks, the Peace and Friendship Park and the City Garden are a great place to relax after sightseeing. On a hill, in a small park, there are the tombs of two important prime ministers of Greece, Eleftherios and Sophocles Venizelos, who headed the state after its rebirth after the Turkish occupation.
The Chania area is known as a perfect summer destination. There are numerous picturesque and well-developed beaches. The most important are Plaza Nea Chora, Kladissos Beach and Tersanas Beach.
