- Region
- Heraklion
- Distance
- 14 km from Heraklion, 7 km from Knossos
- Altitude
- About 380 m
- Sights
- Minoan palace, Fourni, museum, Giouchtas
Minoan Archanes
Part of a Minoan palace was excavated in the Tourkogitonia quarter from 1964 by Giannis Sakellarakis; much of it lies under modern houses. The Fourni cemetery, on a hill west of town, is one of the most important prehistoric cemeteries on Crete; contact the guard to visit. The Archaeological Museum of Archanes, open since 1993 in a neoclassical former school, displays finds from these sites.
About 4 km south, the Minoan villa of Vathypetro has one of the oldest wine presses on Crete.
Mount Giouchtas
Giouchtas (811 m) rises west of town. Legend sees the profile of Zeus in its outline. A trail starting near the Anemospilia site climbs to a Minoan peak sanctuary and the church of Afentis Christos.
The town today
Archanes received a distinction in the European Village Renewal competition in 2000 for its preservation and development. Its squares and lanes are pleasant for an evening meal.
Wine
Vineyards surround the town, and several wineries in the area welcome visitors.
Questions before you go
How far is Archanes from Knossos?
About 7 km.
What is Vathypetro?
A Minoan villa about 4 km south of Archanes with an ancient wine press.
Can you climb Mount Giouchtas?
Yes, a marked trail leads up from near Archanes.
