The largest island in Greece, Crete is a diverse and vibrant land packed with ancient ruins, buzzing cities and breathtaking beaches. Many people come here for the sun, sea and sand yet the best things to do in Crete include much more than the standard package vacation.

What is Crete known for in history?

Crete was the centre of Europes first advanced civilization, the Minoan (c. 2700–1420 BC). This civilization wrote in the undeciphered script known as Linear A. Early Cretan history is replete with legends such as those of King Minos, Theseus and the Minotaur, passed on orally via poets such as Homer.

Why is Crete so popular?

But Greece goes beyond its two most famous islands. Easily accessible and simply stunning, Crete is actually the largest of the Greek Islands. Its size ensures it offers so much to visitors — stunning sunsets, incredible wine, traditional Greek fare, beautiful beaches, ruins and hiking spots.

What food is Crete known for?

Dont leave Crete without trying…Cretan Cheeses. It seems that almost every Cretan village has its own signature cheese. Dakos. Fried snails (Chochlioi boubouristi) Cretan Cheese Pies (Kaltsounia) Lamb with stamnagathi. Gamopilafo. Mountain Bulbs (Askordoulakous) Smoked Pork (Hirina apakia)More items

What is Crete in the Bible?

In their minds, Crete was the central place of the worship of the gods. The mythology was so entrenched in Cretan culture that the churches in Pauls day were integrating their understanding of the Christian God with the prevailing views about the Greek gods, mainly Zeus.

What do you call a person from Crete?

Yes, its CRETAN. In Greek we call them κρητικός (critikos) which sounds exactly like κριτικός (critikos), ergo, the one who offers a critical opinion, not necessarily a criticism.

Is Crete pretty?

The stunning landscape and rich diversity of the island means it is truly one of the most outstanding destinations in Greece which attracts visitors from across the world. If you decide to spend your holiday in Crete, be sure to visit the beautiful villages dotted around the island.

What breakfast do Cretans eat?

While they followed the typical diet of the Greek-Orthodox fasts, the daily nutritional routine is what makes the Cretan diet special. For breakfast there was freshly boiled milk, paximadi, olive oil and some fruit. The mid-morning snack during work also included paximadi along with olive oil or olives and some cheese.

What beer do they drink in Crete?

For a quick, cheap beer though, your best bet is a Mythos or an Amstel. Raki is the national drink of Crete (and Naxos), as opposed to the mainland, where ouzo is drunk. Its a spirit created from the distilled leftovers of wine-production.

What is the main religion in Crete?

The Orthodox faith is the official and prevailing religion of Crete and a key element of local identity and culture.

Do they speak English in Crete?

The language used in Crete is Greek, although in the cities and tourist areas people have no problem understanding English. Additionally, tourism is important, so many people will speak English.

Which is the prettiest part of Crete?

5 Most Picturesque Places to See in CreteThe best beach in Crete, Balos lagoon. One of the best places to see in Crete, Samaria Gorge. The must-see sight of Spinalonga. The best beach in eastern Crete, Voulisma. The best place to visit in Crete, Agios Nikolaos.Jun 2, 2017