Epano Archanes (or Apano Archanes, often referred to simply as
Archanes) is a town in the province of Temenos with 5,409
inhabitants in 2011, at an altitude of 400 m. It is connected to
Heraklion by a road, 16 km long. Archanes is a municipal district of
the Municipality of Archanes - Asterousia, which is the historic
seat.
In the area of Archanes, the springs of Asomatos,
Xeris Karas, Vathipetro and Karnari back on the western remote side
of Yukhta are remarkable. The valley and the whole area of
Archanes is for the most part a vast vineyard of vines and beds,
which produce the famous sultana grapes. The main products of
Archanes are raisins - sultanas, wine of excellent quality from
various varieties (locals: kotsifali, handkerchief, liatiko, vilana
and other newly imported and also excellent quality olive oil. Also,
aromatic plants are cultivated: dittany, thyme, thyme. PPC
underground wiring was laid.
To the west of Archanes is Mount
Yukhtas (Mount Zeus) which from the side of the sea, looks like a
human head lying down, that is, it is an anthropomorphic mountain
and on the north side of which a Minoan cemetery was found.
Archanes (also spelled Arhanes), a charming town in Crete, Greece,
located about 14 km south of Heraklion at an altitude of 400 meters,
boasts a rich history spanning over 5,000 years, deeply tied to the
Minoan civilization. Surrounded by vineyards, olive groves, and fertile
plains, it's renowned for its well-preserved traditional architecture,
award-winning restorations (including being named the 2nd best-restored
village in Europe), and a blend of archaeological wonders, natural
beauty, and cultural experiences. The town is divided into Kato Archanes
(lower) and Epano Archanes (upper), with colorful houses, cobbled
streets, blooming gardens, and squares that exude rural Cretan charm.
Visitors often wander the narrow alleys filled with the scents of local
cuisine and raki, making it a model of authentic Greek village life.
The Village Streets and Architecture
One of the primary
attractions is Archanes itself, where meticulously restored old houses
with tiled roofs, wooden balconies, and vibrant facades line the
stone-paved streets. These restorations, funded by the European Union
and private efforts, have preserved the original atmosphere while
earning accolades for long-term development. The squares buzz with cafes
and tavernas serving Cretan specialties like lamb, salads, and local
wines, often accompanied by homemade raki. The air is filled with the
aroma of blooming flowers and traditional food, offering a sensory
immersion into Cretan hospitality. Historically, the village's layout
reflects influences from Venetian and Ottoman periods, blended with its
Minoan roots.
Archaeological Museum of Archanes
Housed in a
central building, this museum displays a collection of Minoan artifacts
from local excavations, including stone and clay objects, tools, and
replicas of significant finds that illustrate daily life, rituals, and
craftsmanship from the Minoan era (circa 3000–1100 BC). Key exhibits
highlight connections to broader Aegean cultures, with items from sites
like Fourni and Anemospilia. The museum underscores Archanes' role as a
Minoan hub, once home to a palace rivaling Knossos in importance. Open
Wednesday to Monday from 08:30 to 16:00 (closed Tuesdays), it's a
must-visit for history enthusiasts. Visitors can expect informative
displays in a compact space, though some artifacts are replicas to
preserve originals elsewhere.
Fourni (Phourni) Necropolis
Located on the edge of the village, Fourni is the largest prehistoric
cemetery in the Aegean, dating from 2800 BC to 1200 BC. This expansive
site includes 26 excavated graves, a quarry, and various burial
structures like tholos tombs and rock-cut chambers. Artifacts unearthed
here—such as jewelry, pottery, and a notable "Queen's" sarcophagus
(looted but revealing sacrificial remains)—demonstrate trade links with
Egypt, the East, and other Aegean regions. Expanded over centuries, it
provides profound insights into Minoan burial practices and social
hierarchies. The site is accessible via a short hike, offering a quiet,
reflective experience amid olive groves; wear sturdy shoes for uneven
terrain.
Anemospilia Sanctuary
This small Minoan temple from
the 17th century BC, situated near Archanes on the slopes of Mount
Juktas, is infamous for evidence of human sacrifice—skeletons found in
ritual poses amid earthquake ruins. Destroyed around 1700 BC by seismic
activity (common in Crete), the site features a tripartite structure
with altars and offerings, shedding light on Minoan religious practices.
Excavated in the late 20th century, it's a stark reminder of ancient
rituals. Visitors can explore the ruins for free, though the path is
rugged; it's best visited in cooler months to avoid heat, and guided
tours from Archanes enhance understanding.
Vathypetro Minoan
Complex
South of Archanes at the foot of Mount Juktas, Vathypetro is
a reconstructed Minoan villa or manor from around 1580 BC, featuring
ashlar masonry, a wine press (one of the world's oldest), olive mill,
pottery kiln, and shrines. Likely an elite residence or production
center, it was damaged by an earthquake, rebuilt, and abandoned.
Excavated from 1949–1956 by Spyros Marinatos, the site offers
spectacular panoramic views of the Cretan landscape. It's free to visit,
with paths winding through vineyards; combine it with a winery tour
nearby for a full experience of ancient and modern agriculture.
Mount Juktas (Yiouhtas) and Ecologiko Parko Giouchta
The sacred Mount
Juktas, rising to about 811 meters, dominates the skyline and was
revered in Minoan times as Zeus's birthplace (its profile resembles a
reclining face). Hike the E4 trail from Archanes' central square to the
summit chapel of Afentis Christos (about 2–3 hours round trip), passing
through wildflowers, springs, and stunning vistas of Heraklion and the
sea. The Ecologiko Parko Giouchta offers nature trails and picnic spots
in a protected ecological area. Festivals occur at the chapel on August
6; bring water and sun protection, as paths can be steep.
Wineries and Traditional Presses
Archanes is a wine lover's paradise,
with a tradition dating back to Minoan times. Winery Stilianou, a
fifth-generation family operation, offers tastings of six wines (four
whites, two reds) paired with organic cheeses and Cretan pies, set
against breathtaking countryside views. No booking needed; the welcoming
atmosphere emphasizes passion for the land. Other spots like Koronekes
Olive Mill provide olive oil tours, while Vathypetro's ancient press
highlights historical production. Expect relaxed, authentic experiences;
visit in harvest season (September–October) for vibrant activity.
Churches and Other Historical Sites
Archanes features several
Byzantine and Venetian churches, such as the 14th-century Holy Trinity
with restored frescoes, Michael Archangelos (1315 frescoes), and the
rock-carved Holy Cross. The Venetian Morosini aqueduct (1628) in
Karydaki Gorge, a 65m arched structure, was part of a 15km water system
to Heraklion. A monument commemorates the 1944 abduction of Nazi General
Kreipe. These sites offer quiet exploration; many are open daily with no
entry fee.
Additional Experiences
For interactive fun, Idols
Art Experiences offers ceramic workshops recreating Minoan figurines,
led by passionate artists in a themed studio—ideal for all ages, with
snacks included.
The Folklore Museum (sometimes combined with
historical exhibits) displays traditional Cretan life through tools,
textiles, and furnishings.
Archanes is easily reached by bus from
Heraklion (hourly, 20–35 minutes) and best explored on foot or by car
for outlying sites. Stay in restored houses like Kalimera Archanes for
an immersive visit.
1. By Air (Most Common for International Visitors)
The nearest
airport is Heraklion International Airport (HER), which serves flights
from major European cities and Athens.
From Heraklion Airport to
Archanes:
Bus (Cheapest Option): Take the urban bus (line 6 or
similar) from the airport to Heraklion city center (e.g., Eleftherias
Square or the central bus station near the harbor). This takes about
15-20 minutes and costs €1-2. Then transfer to a KTEL regional bus to
Archanes, which takes another 30 minutes and costs €2-3. Total journey:
around 1 hour 42 minutes, with buses running frequently (urban buses
every 10-30 minutes; KTEL buses to Archanes approximately every 1-3
hours from 7:00 AM to 9:00 PM). KTEL departures from Heraklion include
times like 7:30 AM, 10:00 AM, 4:15 PM, and 7:15 PM, but confirm on their
site as more may be available daily. The KTEL bus starts at the central
bus station, with stops at Eleftherias Square and along Leof.
Dimokratias.
Taxi or Private Transfer: A direct taxi ride takes 20-35
minutes and costs €20-40, depending on traffic and time of day. Private
transfers or shuttles are available through services like Suntransfers
or Daytrip for similar prices, often with English-speaking drivers.
Rental Car: Rent a car at the airport (agencies like Hertz or Avis are
available). Drive south via the main road (E75 or local routes) toward
Knossos, then follow signs to Archanes. Distance: about 20 km, time:
25-35 minutes. This is ideal if you plan to explore Crete further.
2. By Ferry (From Mainland Greece or Other Islands)
If coming
from Athens or islands like Santorini, take a ferry to Heraklion Port
(operated by companies like Minoan Lines or Anek Lines; journey from
Piraeus is 6-9 hours).
From the port, it's a short walk or urban
bus ride (5-10 minutes) to the KTEL bus station. Then take the bus to
Archanes as described above (30 minutes). Taxi from the port costs
€15-25.
3. From Heraklion City Center
If you're already in
Heraklion:
Bus: From KTEL Bus Station A (near the harbor), buses
depart regularly to Archanes (every hour or so, 30-minute ride, €2.10).
Taxi: 20-30 minutes, €15-25.
Driving: Head south on the road to
Knossos, then continue to Archanes (25-35 minutes).
Walking/Hiking:
Possible via trails like the E4 European path, but it's about 4-5 hours
and not recommended for casual travel.
Archanes, located in the Heraklion regional unit of Crete, Greece, is
a town with a rich history spanning over 5,000 years. Situated at an
altitude of about 400 meters, it overlooks fertile plains ideal for
viticulture and olive cultivation, which have been central to its
economy throughout the ages. The town's name, derived from ancient
Greek, appears in inscriptions as early as the 5th century BCE. Archanes
is renowned for its Minoan archaeological sites, including a palace
complex that underscores its importance as a regional hub in prehistoric
times. Today, it forms part of the Archanes-Asterousia municipality,
with a population of around 5,064 as of 2021, and continues to thrive on
agriculture, particularly wine and olive production.
Prehistoric
and Neolithic Period (circa 6000–3000 BCE)
Human settlement in
Archanes dates back to the Neolithic era, around 6000 BCE, making it one
of the earliest inhabited sites in Crete. Evidence from this period
includes stone tools, burials, and rudimentary architectural remains,
indicating a settled agricultural community. The area around modern
Archanes, including the nearby Fourni necropolis, shows signs of
organized society with pottery and grave goods. By the Late Neolithic
(5th–4th millennium BCE), the settlement had expanded, with inhabitants
exploiting the fertile valleys for farming. Ancient roads connected
Archanes to other prehistoric sites like Mount Juktas (also known as
Youchta), Anemospilia, Xeri Kara, and Vathypetro, suggesting it served
as a key regional center even in these early times.
Minoan Period
(circa 3000–1450 BCE)
The Minoan civilization marks the zenith of
Archanes' ancient history, with the town emerging as a major palatial
center comparable to Knossos, Phaistos, and Malia. During the
Pre-Palatial period (3000–1900 BCE), the area featured a necropolis at
Fourni with tholos tombs containing valuable artifacts such as ceramics,
seals, Cycladic figurines, gold jewelry, and Egyptian scarabs,
reflecting trade networks and social hierarchy. A Proto-Minoan
settlement developed near the future palace site, with early structures
and Kamaraic ceramics.
In the Proto-Palatial period (1900–1700 BCE),
a grand palace was constructed at Tourkoyeitonia, the central site in
Archanes. This complex included an underground reservoir, an archive
with Linear A tablets, a theater area with paved triangular spaces and
stepped altars, and sanctuaries. Aqueducts from local springs (the
source of the ancient Kairatos River) supplied water to the palace and
nearby Kephala Hill. The palace was built using ashlar blocks, limestone
plaques, plaster, wood, stucco floor tiles, gypsum, kouskoura slabs, mud
bricks, ironstone blocks, schist plaques, blue marble flooring, carved
concave altars, wooden columns, pillars, frescoes, and Polytheron
doorways. Artifacts unearthed include porphyrite stone lamps, vases,
amphorae, cooking pots, cups, tools, tweezers, and a house model.
The
Neo-Palatial period (1700–1450 BCE) saw significant expansion, with
luxurious multi-story buildings featuring marble or schist floors and
wall frescoes in red, blue, and black. The palace, possibly a summer
retreat for Knossos elites, showcased architectural sophistication with
gypsum pilasters, multi-doors, and elaborate floors like pebble mosaics
and slate slabs. Key sites include the spring enclosure (built in Middle
Minoan IB–IIIA and restored after destruction), the Troullos eastern
settlement, and the Aghios Nikolaos theater area. Sanctuaries like the
peak sanctuary on Mount Youchta's High Summit and the independent temple
at Anemospilia highlight ritual practices, with finds such as stone
vessels (crystal, grey/leucolite, steatite), obsidian fragments (likely
for rituals), sea pebbles, conical cups, and "egg cups" suggesting
marine deity worship.
A major earthquake around 1450 BCE devastated
the palace, leading to Mycenaean influences in the Post-Palatial period.
Despite this, the site continued to thrive, with rich pottery and
artifacts from Middle Minoan III to Late Minoan IA. Excavations,
beginning in 1912 by St. Xanthoudidis and advanced by Sir Arthur Evans
in 1922 (who theorized it as a Knossos summer palace), were
significantly expanded from 1964 onward by Yannis and Efi Sakellarakis.
In the 1980s, a Minoan settlement at Lakkos yielded a bronze bull
figurine and chisel. The palace's importance was reaffirmed in recent
decades, with plans for a new Archaeological Museum in Archanes to
display these treasures.
Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman
Periods (circa 800 BCE–395 CE)
Habitation persisted into the
Geometric and Archaic periods, with finds indicating continued worship
on Mount Youchta. The name "Archanes" (or "Acharnas") first appears in a
5th-century BCE inscription—a treaty between Knossos and
Tylissos—referring to a local hero's temenos (sacred enclosure). In the
Classical period, the site remained active, though less prominently than
in Minoan times. Crete fell under Roman rule in 67 BCE after conquest by
Metellus, and Archanes became part of the Knossos colony. Roman-era
remains include houses and tombs, reflecting integration into the
provincial administration.
Byzantine and Venetian Periods
(395–1669 CE)
Byzantine traces are sparse, but include the
10th-century Rocca fortress nearby, built by Nikiforos Fokas after
liberating Crete from Arab rule in 961 CE to control the region.
Venetian rule brought monuments like the Morosini fountain, constructed
in 1628 to channel a local spring. Archanes retained its agricultural
focus during these eras.
Ottoman Period (1669–1898 CE)
Following the Turkish conquest of Heraklion in 1669, Archanes became a
rebel stronghold and was gifted to the traitor A. Baroci. It served as a
base for Turkish officials, with structures like the Mustafa Naili Pasha
mansion featuring courtyards and gardens. The town was a center for
resistance during Cretan uprisings.
Modern Period (1898–Present)
During the Cretan State (1898–1913), Archanes prospered as a village
exporting wine, raisins, and oil. Wealthy residents built neoclassical
houses, preserving a unique architectural heritage with cobbled streets
and lanterns. In the 1897 revolution, it hosted the Defense Committee
and was the only free part of Crete on March 25, 1897. During World War
II, in the Battle of Crete (May 1941), it housed Greek command and a
field hospital; a resistance espionage unit operated under German
occupation, with the town serving as a strategic base due to its natural
defenses.
Post-war, Archanes focused on agriculture. The
Agricultural Cooperative, founded in 1931 with over 1,100 members,
shifted to organic farming in the late 1990s, exporting wine to Europe.
Archaeological excavations continued, including a rediscovered 1956
Greek-Dutch expedition. The 2011 local reform integrated it into
Archanes-Asterousia. Today, it attracts visitors with traditional
guesthouses, tavernas, and sites like the Paradisi gorge, Christian
churches, and Turkish-era buildings, blending history with modern Cretan
life.
Archanes (also spelled Archánes) is a town and former municipal unit located in central Crete, Greece, within the Heraklion regional unit. It serves as the administrative center of the broader Archanes-Asterousia municipality, which was formed in 2011 and spans approximately 335.38 km². The town itself covers a smaller area of about 31.5 km² and has a population of around 5,064 as of 2021. Situated roughly 14 km south of the city of Heraklion and 7 km from the ancient Palace of Knossos, Archanes lies at geographic coordinates 35°14′N 25°10′E. The municipality extends in an elongated strip from the northern urban areas near Heraklion southward to the Libyan Sea coast, encompassing diverse landscapes from inland valleys to coastal zones. This positioning places Archanes at the northeastern edge of a fertile valley formed by Mount Giouchtas (also known as Mount Juktas or Yuchtas), making it a key hub in a region rich with olive groves, vineyards, and archaeological significance.
The topography of Archanes is characterized by its semi-mountainous setting at an elevation of 340–400 meters above sea level, positioned on a plateau within a basin or valley bounded by the Giouchtas mountain range to the southwest and the Kefala hill to the northeast. Mount Giouchtas, rising to 811 meters, dominates the landscape and is often described as resembling a human face when viewed from certain angles, adding a mythical element to the geography—it is considered sacred in Minoan lore. The broader municipality is divided into three elevation-based zones: a mountainous zone above 400 m (including parts of Giouchtas and the eastern Asterousia mountains), a semi-mountainous zone between 200–400 m, and a lowland plain below 200 m, with the higher zones comprising about three-fifths of the total area. To the south, the Asterousia mountain range forms a natural boundary, with the municipality covering the western third of this rugged massif. The area features rolling hills, such as the lush Fourni hill (about 12 km south of Heraklion) with its pine woods, and deep gorges like the Astrakiano and Kounaviano, which are part of the Karteros River ecosystem to the east. The fertile Messara plain extends into the southern parts of the municipality at the northern foothills of the Asterousia range, supporting extensive agriculture.
Water features play a significant role in Archanes' geography, with the town traversed by the Kaeratos (or Kairatos) stream, which originates from local springs and flows northward to form the Knossos Gorge (also known as Knossano Gorge). These springs have historical importance, having supplied water via ancient Minoan aqueducts to sites like Kephala Hill and Knossos. The Archanes Gorge, shaded by plane trees and sycamores, adds to the area's hydrological diversity. To the east, the Karteros River and its tributaries carve deep gorges, contributing to a rich ecosystem shared with neighboring municipalities. The southern extent of the municipality reaches the Libyan Sea, though Archanes itself is inland and not directly coastal.
Archanes experiences a Mediterranean climate, classified as warm and temperate, with hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters. Precipitation is higher in winter than in summer, and the region is generally windy year-round. Due to its elevation and inland position, temperatures are slightly cooler than coastal areas like Heraklion, with clear skies predominant in summer and mostly clear conditions in winter. Average high temperatures range from around 15°C (59°F) in January to 31°C (88°F) in July, though specific monthly data for Archanes mirrors broader Cretan patterns. For example, January highs average about 14°C (57°F) with lows around 11°C (52°F).
The natural environment around Archanes is verdant and fertile, dominated by olive groves, vineyards, and pine woods, particularly on hills like Fourni. The valley's basin supports intensive agriculture, with terraced fields and groves extending across the landscape. Surrounding areas include archaeological sites like Anemospilia on Mount Giouchtas, Vathypetro to the south, and the Minoan settlement of Lakkos nearby, connected by ancient paths. To the north, the municipality borders Heraklion's urban expanse, while the south transitions to the rugged Asterousia mountains and the Messara plain. This blend of natural and cultural features makes the region a microcosm of Crete's diverse geography.
In Archanes, there are two primary schools and the same number of kindergartens, a high school, a high school, a community center, a justice of the peace, a regional clinic, an educational club with a remarkable activity and a library, a cultural and naturalistic club called "Haravgi", a sports club called "Yuchtas", Touring Club and Agricultural Cooperative.