Chania

After the Arabs and the Byzantines it was conquered by the Venetians in 1252 and was given to Turks in 1669. It joined the Greek State on December 1913 under the administration of Eleftherios Venizelos and King Konstantinos the 1st. 

The Old Town of Chania is one of Crete’s most enchanting and historically rich areas, enclosed by the iconic Venetian walls that once served as the city's fortifications. At its heart lies the scenic Venetian port, designed by the renowned engineer Michele Sanmicheli. The town's architecture is a harmonious blend of Venetian elegance and Ottoman charm, creating a distinctive character that reflects its multicultural past.

Εach district has its own unique flair. The Old Town surrounds the harbour and stands as a living testament to Chania’s layered history. Today, it is a designated preserved area, inviting visitors to wander through centuries of heritage amid narrow alleys, vibrant facades, and timeless landmarks.

At the edge of the harbour, the Lighthouse stands proudly on a rocky breakwater protecting the port from the north. Originally built by the Venetians in 1570 and later reconstructed by the Egyptians in 1830, it retains the form we see today and remains one of the most photographed monuments of Chania.

To the east of the Old Town (Palea Poli) lies the district of Splantzia (also known as Plaza), once the heart of the Turkish quarter. Here, you'll find the Church of Agii Anargyri, the only Orthodox church that was allowed to function during both the Venetian and Ottoman occupations. The district also features the lively Sintrivani Square, a popular gathering spot for locals and visitors alike.

On the northeastern edge of the Old Town is the Neoria (or Chiones) district, named after the Venetian dockyards that once dominated this area. Built during the 14th to 16th centuries, these stone-built shipyards served the Venetian fleet and gave the district its maritime character.

At the centre of the Old Town, just west of Neoria, lies the Kastelli district. Built on the site of the ancient Byzantine citadel, Kastelli was once home to the Venetian commander’s palace—known as the palazzo—and later to the Pashas (Turkish commanders) of Chania. The Venetians referred to the area as Castello Vecchio, ie “Old Castle.”

To the southeast, you'll discover the Hebrew district, or Ovraika, a reminder of the once-thriving Jewish community of Chania. During Venetian rule, the community was confined to a designated area known as judeca, where two synagogues once stood. Today, the district’s legacy lives on in its quiet lanes and preserved buildings.

Visit the Archaeological Museum and the Folklore Museum  of Chania. Don't miss the Ottoman hammam (Turkish bath),  and the vibrant Stivanadika neigbourhood.  Named after the traditional Cretan boots (stivania), this bustling street is lined with leather shops, souvenir stands, and a few surviving artisan shoemakers continuing a proud local tradition.