Agia Triada Monastery, Akrotiri & Chania

Delve into the history of Crete by visiting a military cemetery, a magnificent monastery known for its olive oil and wine, and Chania’s spectacular Old Town.

Depart from the pier and drive east to a small plateau that holds a cemetery where more than 1,500 British soldiers were buried after the Battle of Crete in 1941. The cemetery overlooks Souda Bay and is a somber reminder of Crete’s strategic role in World War II.

Afterwards, you will drive to the Agia Triada Monastery on the Akrotiri peninsula, whose construction began in 1634. Over the centuries, the complex has been expanded and now contains a large church, seminary and vaulted storerooms, all meticulously maintained. The monastery also produces a revered olive oil and several varieties of wine.

Driving on, you will then visit the tomb of Eleftherios Venizelos, a charismatic political figure who fought for Cretan independence. As Prime Minister, he was profoundly influential in the founding of modern Greece, until his death in 1936. From his modest, unadorned tomb, you will have a magnificent view back to Chania, your next stop.

On a walking tour of the most historical sections of Old Town, you will gain great insight into Chania’s founding. Many of the Venetian villas and palazzos have been restored, and there is a cathedral dedicated to the Virgin of the Three Martyrs, the patron saint of Chania. You will also browse the bustling agora, where exotic herbs seductively scent the air. Later, you will return to the pier.