Dia's Blue Villa is situated in a prime location on the north coast of Crete, with easy access to below attractions and conveniences
Experience Crete
- 1. Proximity to the Beach: The villa is on the seafront of Gournes, 10 meters from the coast, 30 meters from the nearby pebble beach and 150 meters away from the nearest beach, making it an excellent choice for family vacations.
- 2. Nearby Attractions: Guests can enjoy easy access to popular attractions such as Cretaquarium and Dinosauria Park. Additionally, two Water Parks are a short drive away, providing entertainment for all ages.
- 3. Local Amenities: In the nearby settlements of Gournes and Gouves, visitors can find all the necessary amenities for their daily needs.
- 4. City of Heraklion: For those seeking the advantages of a larger city, Heraklion is conveniently located only 18 kilometers away. Heraklion offers a wide range of facilities and entertainment options.
- 5. Historical Sites: Within a reasonable distance from the villa, guests can explore historical sites like the Knossos Palace (17km) and the Archaeological Museum in Heraklion (16km), which offer insights into Crete's rich history.
- 6. Transportation Hubs: The Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport and the port of Heraklion are easily accessible, making travel to and from the island a breeze. Additionally, the nearby highway exit provides convenient access to numerous beaches, villages, and other cities on Crete, including Rethymno, Chania, Agios Nikolaos, Hersonissos, Malia, Elounda, and more.
The Myth of Dia Island
According to the legend the island was created by Zeus: Zeus, while he was dominating the world from his throne in Olympus, he looked to his birthplace, Crete. He was surprised to see his Cretans hunting with bows and spears, wiping out his beloved wild goats (kri kri). The goats were children of Amaltheia the goat that nurtured Zeus with milk while he was hiding from his father Cronus in Diktaion Antron Cave. He got that angry, that he decided to kill all Cretans. Immediately, he blew a lightning into the sea and a huge monster emerged to destroy the Cretans. However, the other gods tried to make him change his mind, but in vain. Then, Poseidon, the god of Sea, said to Zeus: “My Father and King, how can you devastate Kourites? Is that the way to repay the good that they have made to you?» Kourites were Cretans that were banging loudly on their shields when Zeus was crying, so as not to be heard by his father Cronus, who would eat Zeus. Zeus immediately changed his mind. Then he took two pieces of rusk and threw them towards Crete. So, when the monster tried to eat them, Zeus with a thunderbolt petrified the dragon with the rusks. This is how Dia and the two islets of Paximadi and Petalidi were born.
Also, according to legend, Theseus, after killing the Minotaur, escaped to Dia with Ariadne.
Heraklion Archaeological Museum
The Heraklion Archaeological Museum, located in Greece, is a significant institution that stands out as one of Europe’s most important museums. This museum covers a vast historical timeline, spanning over 5,500 years from the Neolithic period to Roman times, and it houses representative artifacts from various periods of Cretan prehistory and history.
One of the museum’s standout features is its exceptional Minoan collection, which contains unique examples of Minoan art, including true masterpieces. As a result, the Herakleion Museum is renowned as the premier museum worldwide for showcasing Minoan culture.
The museum’s building, constructed between 1937 and 1940 by architect Patroklos Karantinos, is an architectural marvel known for its antiseismic design, incorporating principles of modernist architecture. It offers excellent lighting through skylights and top wall features, along with spacious exhibition areas, laboratories, a library, offices, and a Scientific Collection for storing and studying numerous finds. Additionally, the museum includes a shop selling museum replicas, books, postcards, and slides, as well as a cafe.
Operated as a Special Regional Service of the Ministry of Culture, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum’s mission is to acquire, preserve, conserve, research, publish, display, and promote Cretan artifacts from various historical periods. It also actively engages in organizing temporary exhibitions, collaborating with scholarly institutions, and hosting cultural events in Greece and abroad.
The Palace of Knossos
Knossos, the heart of the Minoan civilization near Heraklion, Greece, is renowned for its connection to King Minos and legends like the Labyrinth and the Minotaur. British archaeologist Arthur Evans uncovered the monumental Knossos palace in the early 20th century, meticulously reconstructing it during excavations.
The palace, spanning 20,000 square meters, served as a religious, administrative, and financial center, with a population of around 80,000 in its prime. Innovative features like “lightwells” and “polythyra” enhanced its architecture. Evidence of advanced civilization includes sewage and water systems.
Key areas in the palace include the Throneroom, storage rooms, and the Grand Staircase leading to the royal quarters. Remarkable frescoes and artifacts are exact copies; originals are in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum.
Visiting Knossos and the museum provides a comprehensive view of Minoan civilization’s grandeur.
Spinalonga
Spinalonga, a historically significant and beautiful islet at the northern entrance of Elounda Bay, has a rich history. It served as a Venetian fortress, a refuge for revolutionaries during the Cretan War, an Ottoman settlement, and a leprosarium. The island gained fame through the novel “The Island” by British author Victoria Hislop.
The Venetians constructed a strong fortress in the late 16th century, utilizing local limestone and sandstone. It played a role in the Cretan War, housing refugees and revolutionaries. Afterward, it became an Ottoman settlement and later a thriving trade port.
In the late 19th century, the rise of Christian revolutionaries led to emigration of Ottoman inhabitants. In 1903, Spinalonga became a leprosarium, hosting those with leprosy until 1957, earning a reputation as a place of suffering.
Today, visitors can explore the well-preserved fortress, the castle town, and the traditional settlement at the island’s center. Highlights include a theater, the Venetian church of Agios Georgios, and a cemetery with a plaque honoring those who suffered from Hansen’s disease.
Phaestos Palace
Phaistos, located on a low hill in southern Crete near the Geropotamos River, is a historically significant site. It was a key center of the Minoan civilization and one of the wealthiest cities in southern Crete. The city had a mild and warm climate, contributing to the comfort of its residents.
Phaistos was founded in the Neolithic period and saw significant development with the introduction of metals. It reached its zenith during the Bronze Age in the middle of the 3rd millennium B.C., coinciding with the emergence of the Minoan civilization.
The city was home to kings who ruled over the fertile Mesara plain and controlled access to the sea and harbors. The first palace, built around 1900 B.C., covered a vast area but was destroyed by an earthquake in around 1700 B.C. A more imposing palace was constructed in its place, with most of the preserved remnants belonging to it.
After the destruction of the palace in the 15th century B.C., Phaistos continued to be inhabited during the Mycenaean and Geometric periods. It experienced another period of prosperity with expanded territory and powerful harbors.
In the Hellenistic period, around 1600 B.C., the city was destroyed and occupied by Gortys. Phaistos gradually lost its influence and was inhabited during the Venetian period. Today, the modern village of Agios Ioannis stands on the outskirts of the ancient city.
Archaeologically, Phaistos ranks as the second most important Minoan city after Knossos. Excavations and restoration efforts have contributed to its preservation, with some areas covered to protect them from the elements.
The Palace of Malia
Malia, located in Crete, has a rich historical background. Human presence in the area dates back to the Neolithic period (6000-3000 B.C.), as evidenced by potsherds. Habitation in Malia continued from the middle of the 3rd millennium B.C. until the end of prehistory.
The first palace in Malia was built around 2000-1900 B.C. on top of a pre-palatial settlement dating from 2500-2000 B.C. Graves from this period are located near the sea. The palace underwent destruction in around 1700 B.C. but was rebuilt in 1650 B.C., following the original plan with some modifications. This second palace was destroyed around 1450 B.C., similar to other Minoan palaces.
The site saw brief reoccupation in the 14th-13th century B.C. during the Late Minoan period. Subsequently, a Roman settlement, including a 6th-century basilica, covered a wide area known as “Marmara.”
Notable historical figures like English admiral Th. Spratt and archaeologist Iosif Hatzidakis made significant contributions to the exploration of Malia’s history. The French School of Archaeology at Athens resumed excavations at the site, which are ongoing. The findings have been documented in the “Etudes Cretoises” series since 1928 and other works. Artifacts from Malia are displayed in the Museum of Heraklion and the Museum of Agios Nikolaos.
The Historical Museum of Crete
The Historical Museum of Crete, founded in 1953, centers on preserving and showcasing Crete’s rich cultural heritage, spanning from early Byzantine times to the modern era. It boasts an extensive collection of items that offer a comprehensive journey through Cretan history and culture. Some notable highlights from the museum’s collections include:
1. **Ancient Artifacts:** The museum features a rich assortment of ancient artifacts, including pottery, sculptures, and tools from various historical periods, offering insights into the island’s ancient civilizations.
2. **Byzantine and Post-Byzantine Treasures:** Visitors can explore a significant collection of Byzantine and post-Byzantine religious art, including icons, manuscripts, and religious objects that illuminate the spiritual heritage of Crete.
3. **Modern Greek History:** The museum covers modern Greek history, showcasing items related to key historical events, such as the struggle for independence and the two World Wars. It also includes exhibits dedicated to prominent Greek literary figures like Elytis and Kazantzakis.
4. **Folk Art and Traditional Crafts:** A fascinating display of Cretan folk art and traditional crafts provides a glimpse into the island’s cultural heritage, with exhibits ranging from textiles to household items.
5. **Paintings and Contemporary Art:** The museum hosts a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and contemporary art pieces by Cretan and Greek artists, reflecting the island’s vibrant artistic scene.
6. **Temporary Exhibitions:** The museum regularly hosts temporary exhibitions that delve into various aspects of Cretan culture, history, and art, ensuring there’s always something new and exciting to explore.
This diverse array of items and exhibits at the Historical Museum of Crete provides a comprehensive overview of the island’s rich history, culture, and artistic achievements, making it a must-visit destination for those interested in Cretan heritage.
Museum of Eleftherna & Ancient City of Eleftherna
The Museum of ancient Eleutherna – Homer in Crete, the first archaeological site museum in Crete, although smaller in size, is similar to those of Olympia, Delphi, and Vergina. The museum was created to house the results of the excavations carried out for thirty years in the ancient city of Eleutherna.
Ancient Eleutherna, located on the Prines and Nisi hills in modern-day villages, holds a treasure trove of archaeological discoveries spanning various historical eras:
1. **Hellenistic and Roman Structures:** On the east foot of Prines hill, remnants of Hellenistic retaining walls, Roman buildings, and a Christian basilica dedicated to the Archangel Michael were found. The basilica, constructed around AD 420-450, met its demise in the seventh century AD.
2. **Roman Buildings:** Among the Roman discoveries are three houses and a bathhouse with two furnaces. These structures suffered damage during the powerful earthquake of AD 365. Additionally, a stone-paved street and a large public building likely from the Hellenistic period but also used during the Roman era were uncovered.
3. **Fortifications and Water Cisterns:** Notable features include a fortification tower, possibly used from the Hellenistic to Byzantine periods, on Pyrgi hill. Nearby are two massive rock-hewn water cisterns. A significant limestone quarry exists at Peristere.
4. **Cemeteries:** Roman cemeteries are primarily located below the quarry at Langas in the city’s northwest sector. The famous cemetery of Orthi Petra, dating from the Late Protogeometric period (870/850 BC) to the Archaic period (600/650 BC), lies on the west slope of Prines hill.
5. **City Center:** The archaeological remains atop the northern part of Prines hill indicate that it served as the ancient city’s center across different epochs. Discoveries include buildings from the Late Bronze Age, an Archaic sanctuary, and structures from the Roman, Late Roman, and Byzantine periods.
6. **Nisi Hill:** On Nisi hill, the western hill of the ancient city, excavations unveiled a Hellenistic city quarter with houses and a sanctuary enclosure featuring a five-column Doric propylon from around 400 BC.
7. **Artifacts and Inscriptions:** The excavations at Ancient Eleutherna yielded a wealth of artifacts and inscriptions from various historical periods, ranging from Sub-Neolithic to Byzantine. These findings encompass sculptures, precious objects, imports from the East, coins, metal utensils, glass vases, and more, providing valuable insights into the history and culture of the region.
CretAquarium
Our villa is practically next door to the largest Aquarium in Greece.
The aquarium is operated by the Hellenic Centre for Marine Research, a public research institution. Its exhibits focus on the marine fauna of the Mediterranean region and include sea organisms from over 250 species in more than 60 tanks.
**Playing with the Light:**
The sun’s radiant energy, vital even in the depths of the sea, doesn’t reach every corner. In these underwater realms, darkness prevails, housing a multitude of life forms.
These deep-sea zones, with their caves, crevices, and rocky outcrops, offer encounters both unique and diverse. Some areas are bathed in abundant light, while others remain shrouded in darkness.
Your CretAquarium adventure begins in a section where low light conditions set the stage. Here, you’ll encounter a mesmerizing array of marine life, including dusky groupers, red corals, crayfish, gorgonians, and skates. Prepare to be enthralled by the wonders of the deep sea.
Dinosauria Park
This outdoor park, just minutes on foot from Dia’s Blue Villa, boasts an extensive collection of over 50 dinosaur species, featuring statues and robotic exhibits that transport visitors from the present to the awe-inspiring world of prehistoric giants.
As you explore the park, you’ll encounter various attractions, including a fossil museum, a fascinating time machine, a dinosaur hospital, and specially designated excavation sites. For an immersive experience there is a 5D Cinema, equipped with augmented reality technology and simulators with VR masks.
For some outdoor fun, there’s a spacious, certified (TUV) playground, ensuring carefree enjoyment. A well-organized snack bar and restaurant are on-site to satisfy your cravings. You can also explore the shop, where young visitors can pick up educational toys as souvenirs.
AcquaPlus Water Park
Enjoy the rides and slides of the Acqua Plus Water Park, one of the largest water parks on Crete. Discover more than 50 attractions and facilities, including a 262-foot hydrotube that is fun for all ages!
Water City
Situated in the area of Anopolis, between Hersonissos and Heraklion. It has 36 water games in 87,000 square metres.
Labyrinth Park
Greek mythology-themed park with a maze, mini golf, horseback riding, archery & other attractions.
Recommended beaches in the Heraklion prefecture:
North Coast:
1. Hersonissos Beach: A long sandy beach with various amenities such as sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, lifeguards, showers, and water sports.
2. Stalida Beach: Well-organized with umbrellas, lifeguards, beach volleyball courts, showers, beach bars, water sports, and even a small colony of Cretan date palms.
3. Ligaria Beach: Features beautiful coarse sand, calm turquoise waters, and a protected bay. It offers umbrellas, sunbeds, water sports, a diving school, beach bars, and restaurants.
4. Agia Pelagia Beach: A long, narrow beach with sand and greenish waters. The bay is typically calm, ideal for water sports, diving, and dining options.
5. Psaromoura Beach: A pebbly beach popular among locals, with a picturesque rock formation on the north end. It is now organized with umbrellas, sunbeds, and a canteen.
South Coast:
1. Aspes Beach: An enchanting, non-organized beach with dark-colored sand, surrounded by vertical cliffs and caves. The sea has vivid turquoise colors, accessible only by boat.
2. Agios Nikitas Beach: A lovely beach with small pebbles and deep blue waters, flanked by red volcanic rocks. It lacks infrastructure but boasts a unique atmosphere with native Cretan palm trees.
3. Matala Beach: One of Crete’s most popular destinations, known for its carved caves in the rocks and its hippie history. The 300m long sandy beach offers amenities like umbrellas, toilets, lifeguards, beach volley courts, and more.
These beaches provide a range of experiences, from organized and bustling to secluded and natural, making them great choices for visitors to the Heraklion prefecture in Greece.