Ancient Aptera Crete

Ancient Aptera Crete

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Positioned along the coast of western Crete is Aptera, it dominates from 200 metres above among the Mediterraneans biggest natural harbours, Souda bay, the large natural bay has two Minoan harbours Kissamos and Minoa and that is now also known as Marathi and Kissamos is located near Kalyves.

In the Hellenistic years of 3-4 BC Aptera was at it's peak, as an self-sufficient city state, Aptera minted it's own currency consisting of up to 76 different types of coin.

Aptera had influences in foreign affairs coupled with its which it governed well.

Aptera's army of skilled archers was notorious. As mercenaries they fought overseas, bringing back riches and wealth to their home state.

During the Crete civil war within the 2nd and 3rd century, Aptera took the side of Knossos and fought against Gortyn.

The name Aptera has two theories for its origin.

A musical contest between the sirens and the muses is one theory.

The sirens were cast wingless into the sea; the muses were the victor's.

It is said that this course of action formed the islands of Lefkae (white islands).

In Greek wingless roughly translates to apterae,

Where the St. John's church has become, The temple constructed in honour for the Muses once stood.

2.

Some say Aptera gets it's name belonging to the ancient Minoan king 'Apteron'.

He was the founder of the city and for that reason the very first ruler.

In 67BC, The Romans took occupation of Aptera, giving rise to a new peak within the 1st and 2nd centuries AD.

Earthquakes started the demise of Aptera in 364/365 AD and after the earthquake of 700BC, Aptera was abandoned as a city.

Since 1182 a small monastery setup on the site, and was occupied right up to 1964.

Paleokastro, A smaller settlement on the site of Aptera was destroyed by Barbarians in 1588.

In 1866 A Turkish fort was built, the Turks used materialfrom the Aptera site to build the Itzedin fortress at Kalamni.

Dating back to the Minoan era, Aptera is now the most important archaeological sites relating to the island of Crete; areas the 4km long exterior wall fortifications can continue to be seen.

Aptera was once a great city, it's not at all hard to think Over the size and scale of Aptera and it's prominent position over Souda bay it became a main centre of shipping, commerce and administration.

You'll find stunning views out on the Apokoronas area,taking in the majestic White Mountains and Souda Bay, clearly visible around the Turkish fort.

There has been many archeological finds on the site of Aptera, these are visible in various museums in Crete and some in Istanbul, although additional are said to lay undiscovered?

The national road that runs across the island affords easy access for the site of Aptera with easy parking, and then for miles around you can observe the Turkish fort standing on the headland.

Because Aptera is not as fully excavated as Knossos, you will find as a quieter place to visit, it has maybe an eerie atmosphere in a dramatic setting with views that are awesome!

Try Aptera its well worth a visit.

About the Author:
Crete has many beautiful sites, for more info aboutAptera or more about villas in Crete visit www.sophiashouse.co.uk



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