Crete Holidays: The Four Prefectures in Crete
For any travels to Crete it helps to know that there are four different prefectures in Crete. These prefectures, or provinces, have their own unique destinations that make for a great trip to Crete. In fact, there are activities for everyone in these areas. Here's a look at the prefectures in Crete.
First, there is Chania. This is the westernmost prefecture in the Crete area. This prefecture is home to one of the top destinations in Crete, the Samaria Gorge park. This place is a refuge for the Cretan goat, or Kri-kri, which is a rare species of animal. Also in Chania there are various mountains, many of which are greater than two thousand meters in height. Chania is also popular among bird watchers, and various different rare plants can be found here as well. This part of the land is also the closest to the Mediterranean Sea, and various beaches along the sea can be found in this prefecture.
Next in Crete there is the prefecture of Heraklion. This is the most populated of the four prefectures, and it is home to the city of Heraklion. The climate in this area is known for being seasonably warm throughout the year. Various notable parts of architecture are found in this area as well, including the Morosini Fountain, which has been around in the city since 1628. Also in Heraklion is Mount Ida, the mountain that is considered to be sacred in Greek mythology.
Lasithi is the third of the prefectures. This is the easternmost of the four prefectures in Crete. What makes this one of the top destinations in Crete are the historical attractions here. Lasithi features the site of the original Dorian settlement of Lato and Olous. Also in this area are the Sitia Mountains, the Libyan Sea on the southern part of the area and the Sea of Crete on its north. The beaches in this area are especially popular among destinations in Crete. Ruins of both Minoan and Doric settlements from centuries past can also be found in Lasithi.
The fourth and final of the prefectures is Rethymno. This prefecture is most notable for the city of Plakias. This area, which is right along the Libyan Sea, features a long beach which has been used for traditional beachgoers and for nudists alike. Also in the area is the Monastery of Preveli, a historical landmark which was used to help with hiding people during the Cretan revolts in World War II.
Those are the four different prefectures in Crete. These are all four different areas of the land, and they all have their various great attractions and things to do. They make for great and memorable places to visit while in Crete.
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