Khania Tourist Attractions
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Khanía, chief town of its nomos, lies in the southeast corner of Khaniá Bay on the north coast of Crete. The town was founded by the Venetians in the 13th century, under the name of La Canea, on the site of ancient Kydonia. It suffered heavy damage during World War II.The old town is surrounded by its 16th century walls, with a total length of 3km/2mi. To the north is the Venetian harbor (boating marina), with a lighthouse at the end of the pier, several Venetian arsenals (ca. 1500; now used as boat-sheds) and part of the old fortifications.The Gothic church of San Francesco now houses the Archeological Museum. Other features of interest are the church of San Salvatore (16th C.), the Janissaries' Mosque (1645), a number of fine Venetian mansions and the large Market Hall.
San Francesco Archeological Museum
The Gothic church of San Francesco now houses the Archeological Museum.The museum holds exhibits from western Crete and other areas. The exhibits date from the Neolithic to the Roman era, and include idols, statues, inscriptions, weapons, pottery, sealstones, coins and jewelry, among other things.
Historical Archives
To the south of the old town, at Odós I. Sfakianáki 20, are the Historical Archives, with interesting documents, old weapons and icons.The archives also hold a rich collection of folklore and material related to the history of the island.The archives are among the largest in the country, second only to the General Archives of the Greek State.
Khalepa, Greece
1.5km/1mi east of the town of Khaniá is the villa suburb of Khalépa, with the residence of the governor and the foreign consulates.
Souda Bay
Four km/2.5mi southeast of the old town of Khaniá is Soúda Bay, the largest and most sheltered natural harbor on the island (the commercial harbor of Khaniá and a naval base).
Naval Museum
The Naval Museum of Khaniá is located at the Venetian harbor and includes exhibits items from throughout the island's history.
Agia Magdalini Church
In the Khelepa quarter of Khaniá is the Russo-Byzantine church of Agia Magdalini.
Chapel of the Moneyless Saints
The Chapel of the Moneyless Saints (Ágii Anárgiri) has old Byzantine frescoes.
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Map of Khania Attractions
Map - Khania
