Chania, Venetiaanse havenstad

Chania is a city of unique beauty, filled with an abundance of fragrant flowers, and boasting a rich cultural heritage. Ancient and modern monuments, the Venetian Harbour and the Old Town, colourful neighbourhoods, a traditional lifestyle and the friendly inhabitants warmly invite you to become acquainted with the city, promising you unforgettable moments. 

Present day Chania is built on the ancient site of “Kydonia”, a town of importance, which existed until the end of the 2nd Byzantine period. The Byzantines had also built great fortifications.

According to evidence, during the Arab occupation there was a town named “Rhiaddh El Djobn” meaning “City of Cheese”. The name “Chania” originally appears as “Canea” during the Venetian occupation. It is historically confirmed however, that the Venetians first built the town under the name of “La Canea” and during its occupation it thrived and prospered as the most important administrative centre of Western Crete.

In 1645, the Turks following a siege that lasted two months conquered Chania. The revolution that broke out on the Greek mainland during 1821 influenced the Cretans, who attempted to liberate their island from the Turkish occupation, but their rebellion was suppressed by Egyptian troops. The Egyptians then remained in power until 1840 and during that time they exhibited great interest in repairing the old Port.

Opposite the lighthouse, the “Firkas” fortress dominates the entrance to the harbour.
It was here that the flag of the Greek republic was hoisted in 1913 as official endorsement of Crete’s union with the Greek State. After the union with Greece, Chania played the prominent role as the financial, cultural and administrative centre of the entire island. The town of Chania is still one of the most beautiful architecturally designed towns in the Mediterranean.

Chania Accommodaties