Elounda through the monuments of the past
Elounda, known for its natural bay and beautiful beaches, has hidden cultural treasures worth discovering. The entrance of the lagoon is dominated by the windmills, a typical example of traditional Cretan architecture. Built in the early 20th century, they were used to grind grain with the power of the wind and they are now a landmark of the region. A stroll nearby with a view of the sea and the small canal connecting the bay to the open sea, is one of the most beautiful experiences in Elounda.
The archaeological site of Olous, one of the most important Doric cities of Crete, stretches out beside it. The city flourished during Hellenistic and Roman times, while today a large part of it lies submerged in the sea, creating a singular archaeological site.
On land, there are ruins of walls, temples, and many early Christian basilicas, which bear witness to the prosperity of the city in the early Christian centuries. Beneath the crystal-clear waters, traces of buildings survive, visible even with just a scuba mask. Olous combines its historical heritage with its enchanting natural landscape, offering a rare exploration experience that straddles land and sea.
Visits to Elounda ideally end with a walk along the coastal road, where, together, the windmills and ancient Olous recount the history of the region, from antiquity to the modern era.
The archaeological site of Olous, one of the most important Doric cities of Crete, stretches out beside it. The city flourished during Hellenistic and Roman times, while today a large part of it lies submerged in the sea, creating a singular archaeological site.
On land, there are ruins of walls, temples, and many early Christian basilicas, which bear witness to the prosperity of the city in the early Christian centuries. Beneath the crystal-clear waters, traces of buildings survive, visible even with just a scuba mask. Olous combines its historical heritage with its enchanting natural landscape, offering a rare exploration experience that straddles land and sea.
Visits to Elounda ideally end with a walk along the coastal road, where, together, the windmills and ancient Olous recount the history of the region, from antiquity to the modern era.
