Matala

  • Matala caves
  • Matala Mai 2009
Distance 11km to the south-west of Phaistos

On the south coast, 11km to the south-west of Phaestos. Here, the myth has it, Zeus - bull brought Europe before they went to Gortyna.

In the very same place the Minoans founded one of the prehistoric harbors of Phaestos which were later chosen by the Romans to be the Gortyna havens. Nowadays, one can see remnants, even sub-water ones.

The Matala caves offer an extraordinary sight. Some caves hewn in the prehistoric years were used by the Romans mainly as tombs. Currently, they are open to the public, as an official archaeological site. Public toilets and showers are available just by the entrance. Apart from the historical value of the region, what makes it special is its location itself. In the deep blue of the Libyan sea, across the African coast, minerals in white hues and the scents of the Mediterranean vegetation. It’s been a source to inspiration for many. That might have qualified Matala as an international meeting point for the hippies in the ‘60s and ‘70s. Nowadays, there are facilities for accommodation, food, and excursions nearby.

A Cretan experience A Cretan Odyssey

Map

Other Travel Guides

{tguide_phototitle_en}

The wetland of Almyros

Located along the north coast of the Malevizi district, it consists of a main spring, a lagoon and a river, as well as a marshland of about half a sq. km. around.

More
{tguide_phototitle_en}

Minoan Palace in Archanes

It is situated 16km to the southeast of Heraklion, in Archanes town, a suburb called “tourkogitonia” (Turkish neighbourhood).

More
{tguide_phototitle_en}

Sfakia

Sfakia is a coastal settlement of 350 residents. It played a leading role in all the Cretan uprisings against the Venetians and Ottomans and the wild character of its landscape has always provided a refuge for Cretans who were being pursued.

More
{tguide_phototitle_en}

Nida Plateau

The famous plateau of Nida located ataltitude of 1450 meters above sea level. It bears the ancient name of the Psiloritis mountain

More
{tguide_phototitle_en}

Kalessa Village

A village of 1238 inhabitants found at an altitude of 140 meters. On the west of the village lies a unique habitat, the Kalesano stream of 5 km length.

More
Experiences
We know best
Follow us
Follow us on social networking pages and learn our news first
Contact us

Andreadaki 13-15 Heraklion, Crete
712 01, Greece
Tel.: +30 2810-342222
Fax: +30 2810-342212
e-mail: touristguidesofcrete@gmail.com
ΜΗ.Τ.Ε. 1039 Ε 6000 00870 00
Office hours: Mon - Fri: 9.00 - 15.00

Newsletter
Sign up to receive great deals first and our company news

CreditCards