History of Chania, Crete
In the town of Chania, Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman buildings coexist in the landscape of the city. As far as Muslim architecture is concerned, one of the most emblematic corners of the city is the famous Mosque of the Janissaries.
The mix of architectural styles make for a stimulating but still largely harmonious skyline. However, there is more than meets the eye when it comes to Chania’s history; the town has likely been inhabited since the end of the Stone Age, or the “Neolithic period”.
Excavations near and within the city have revealed some of its history to modern day Greeks, and archaeologists have been able to find evidence of the city’s Minoan history as well as its more distant past. The modern day city lies on the site of the Minoan settlement named Kydonia, which acted as a namesake for the fruit quince.
The first era of Byzantine rule lasted from 395–824 AD, and then the city was briefly ruled by the Arabs for around a century. They renamed the city “Al Hanim” (the Inn) before it was retaken by the Byzantine Empire, who reverted back to calling the city by its Greek name, Chania.
After the Fourth Crusade (1204) and the fall of Byzantium in the Hellenic area, the city was once again conquered by foreign powers. This time, Venice begun to rule over Chania, renaming it “La Canea” and strengthening its fortifications, giving Chania the form that it still has today.
Finally, the Ottoman Empire defeated the Venetians during the beginning of the Cretan War, taking over Chania. New mosques and public baths were built in the city, adding to the beautiful landscape that is still around today.
During the 19th and early 20th century inter-ethnic violence on Crete eventually led to the mass migration of the island’s local Muslim population to other Mediterranean islands or coastal cities. Mass conversions also occurred. The population exchange between Greece and Turkey in 1922 resulted in the deportation of the island’s last Muslim residents.
Best Beaches in Chania
The prefecture of Chania hosts some of the most beautiful beaches on the island of Crete.
Falassarna on the west side is well known for its privileged location, being perfect for water sports and unique sunsets. The beach is a bit outside of the city, and can be accessed by car or bus ride. However, the trek is worth it in order to experience one of the most beautiful and well-known beaches not only on Crete, but in the entirety of the country.
To the south, world-famous Elafonisi beach can be found. The beach is around an hour and a half drive from the main city, but you would be hard-pressed to find any tourist that does not make the effort to visit it. The beach features crystal waters and magical pink sand, making it look like it was conjured up in a fairytale — certainly not one to miss!
For the more adventurous type, the peninsula of Gramvousa and the unique landscape of Balos beach are well worth the trip over the dirt path.
Perfect for tourists
Chania is the perfect place to spend a family, romantic, or even solo trip. The town is diverse and has something for everyone, as well as being very convenient for travelers, with multiple direct international flights touching down daily.
Travelers to Chania can expect to have enough cultural and local activities available, with the option to fill multiple days worth of time with these pursuits. However, the town also has much to offer the more laid-back tourist, with beautiful beaches and world-class restaurants abounding in the town.
A visit to the Municipal Market, or Dimotiki Agora, is the best excuse to take back some of the traditions of the island.
Considered to be an architectural gem and one the most important public markets in the region, the Municipal Market gives visitors the opportunity to shop for local produce of excellent quality.
Olives, honey, spices, herbs and cheese are some of the Cretan tastes that tourists typically choose to return with.
Otherwise, visitors can visit the historic and beautiful Mosque of the Janissaries. Located in the old Venetian Harbor, the mosque was built on the grounds of a former church with one nave. It no longer functions as a religious building and it remains the oldest structure from the Ottoman period.
Also known as the “Kucjk Hassan Mosque,” the building dates back to 1645 when the Turks captured Chania and it’s the oldest Ottoman building on the island.
It stopped functioning as a mosque in 1923, and since then the venue has been used as a café, a restaurant, and a tourist office during the years. In the recent past, the mosque was renovated, becoming a space dedicated to exhibitions.
Hiking the one-of-a-kind Samaria Gorge is another fun activity to do in Chania. The 15 kilometer (10 mile) long walk takes you through a stunning UNESCO Biosphere Reserve and some of the most unique scenery to be found in the entirety of Greece.
Where to stay in Chania on Crete
One of the best places to stay in Chania, if not the whole island of Crete, is Hotel Chania Flair. The adults only hotel is a new build, and was completed in 2020 — making it perfectly modern, offering every comfort you could possibly think of!
Its location and adults only status make it very peaceful. Located in Nea Chora, Chania, Flair is in a quiet location while still being in the city. It’s situated steps away from the beach and the Venetian harbor is also easily accessible by foot. Chania Flair manages to be both centrally located and peaceful, making it perfectly placed in the city.
The 5 star hotel impresses with its elegant design, high-quality furnishings and its privileged location between the sandy beach, city and old town.
“Chania Flair is neither a typical city hotel nor a secluded holiday resort,” says Labros Tsiledakis, Executive Manager of Chania Flair. “It is the new approach to a relaxing holiday: to feel the pulse of a romantic Venetian harbor city and at the same time enjoy a relaxing, regenerating beach holiday! With the quality guarantee of Corissia Hotels.”
In the hotel building you will find spacious lounges with garden area as well as a reception area which is open 24 hours a day.
On the sitting and sun terrace on the top floor, you can enjoy a magnificent panoramic view of the bay of Chania and the White Mountains of Crete with a drink of your choice. In the Rooftop Fitness Studio you will find state-of-the-art equipment where you can enjoy your fitness training with a magnificent view of the sea free of charge.
Chania Flair is a CO2-neutral hotel: very high energy efficiency and climate-neutrality through state-of-the-art construction and use of sustainable, renewable energy sources.
