CATEGORY:CRETE | MYTHOLOGY

The most famous myths of Crete

November 18, 2022

Photo from www.smarthistory.org

 

Brimming with wonders, Crete’s epic land has been inspiring storytellers since the dawn of history. Colourful narratives about mighty kings and potent heroes, ferocious beasts and even the planet’s first robot were passed down by word of mouth across the generations – and through the skill of their orators became deep-seated legends that attempt to account for the origins of mankind and the workings of the world.

 

Crete’s oral traditions – a dramatic collection of age-old, richly-narrated tales of lust, betrayal, passion and treason – continue to fascinate young and old alike. So how about imbuing your upcoming holiday on our island with an extra sprinkling of magic? Read on for the most intriguing myths of Crete and get ready to delve into a bewitching realm of fantasy where everything seems possible.

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CATEGORY:CRETE

More fun and wild things you should know about Crete

October 31, 2022

Photo by Michael from Pixabay

 

Planning a trip to Greece’s largest island? Here are some interesting things you should know about Crete to make the most out of your visit – and to impress friends and family with your insider knowledge and insights.

 

On the southernmost corner of the European continent, due to its sheer size and favourable climatic conditions, Crete is like a mini-universe in its own right, with a highly diversified landscape, epic food, fascinating history and a wealth of charming traditions.

 

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CATEGORY:CRETE

5 +1 intriguing facts about Crete

September 26, 2022

Photo by ERROR_420 from Pixabay

 

Looking for some wanderlust inspiration? Here is our Oscar Suites & Village handpicked list of fun and intriguing facts about Crete, to whet your appetite for discoveries and explorations.

 

Stunning beaches, epic food, awe-inspiring monuments, gorgeous architecture, evocative music, age-old traditions, picturesque villages, proud locals and so much more…The list of Crete’s charms is endless really – that’s why this sunkissed island should be on every dedicated traveller’s bucket list. Whether you’re a solo visitor, a couple on your honeymoon, or on a holiday with your family and friends, Crete is one of the most fascinating places on the planet, with a wealth of hidden treasures, secret stories and behind-the-scenes attractions beckoning the explorer in you. These fun and intriguing facts about Crete, will fuel your wanderlust and inspire you to venture beyond the beaten path, delve deep into ancient mysteries or even become amateur naturalists or history buffs.

 

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CATEGORY:CRETE

History of Crete: Timeline

August 26, 2022

Image by Pat from Pixabay

 

A short look into the grand history of Crete

From Neolithic times to the present, post-covid era, the history of Crete has always been fascinating, tumultuous and teeming with legendary characters – fictional and real, alike. It’s also what has shaped the locals’ unique culture, folkways and norms – the sum of traits and characteristics that make for the distinct Cretan way of life; which in turn continues to enchant visitors from the four corners of the globe. Here’s a short, but comprehensive timeline of the history of Crete.

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CATEGORY:CRETE | RESTAURANTS

Food in Chania

July 27, 2022

One of the greatest pleasures of holidaying in Crete is its gastronomy – a prime blend of delectability and goodness responsible for the locals’ longevity; based on the fruits of the land and the sea, and drawing on an ancient tradition that dates back to Minoan times. But it is not only quaint, old-school cafes and tavernas out there. With a new wave of forward-thinking eateries, food in Chania is in the spotlight now more than ever. The emphasis still lies on premium – and whenever possible (or befitting), locally sourced raw ingredients – but advanced techniques, fresh presentation and a surge of culinary genius have been steadfastly upping the ante in recent years.

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CATEGORY:CRETE

The splendid New Archaeological Museum of Chania

June 20, 2022

Image from www.cretanbeaches.com

 

The spectacular new Archaeological Museum of Chania rivals those of Europe’s greatest capitals

There are many reasons to love Greece – and one of the first and foremost is its rich and compelling history. Lest we forget, Classical Greece gave birth to the seminal culture that provided the foundation of modern Western democracy, art, theatre, philosophy, and science – and for this reason, Greece is globally recognised as the cradle of Western Civilization.

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CATEGORY:CRETE | LANDMARKS

Top 5 historical landmarks in Chania

May 25, 2022

Image by fietzfotos form pixabay.com

Watch the tales of bygone days coming to life with a visit to these top 5 historical landmarks in Chania

Boasting a long and turbulent history that’s manifested with a fusion of Byzantine, Venetian, Ottoman and Jewish remains, the iconic town of Chania, is one of the most enchanting destinations in the Mediterranean – if not the world. Between getting lost in quaint, labyrinth alleyways, shopping for leather goods – or decadent cheeses in the trademark municipal market – strolling along the seafront or tasting divine food and drink, you’ll not have a moment’s boredom in Crete’s arguably most picturesque city. And though the best way to soak up as much of its atmosphere and vibes as possible, is just wandering around on foot, there are certain not-to-be-missed sights and attractions that’ll significantly enrich your experience.

 

If you are planning a visit this summer, here are the top 5 historical landmarks in Chania, you’ll be glad you didn’t go without.

 

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CATEGORY:CRETE | GUIDE

Top Wineries near Chania (part 2)

April 27, 2022

Image by gusaap from Pixabay

 

Crete is the next big thing in the international wine scene – and its west is where it’s at. Taste the gems of the wineries near Chania, fall in love forever

“And wine to gladden the heart of man…”, this verse might come from the Bible, but the people of Crete have already known that for millennia before the advent of Christ. With a continuous presence since Minoan times, Cretan wines have a long-standing history that puts them in the centre of local life, folklore, and myth. They are also an important source of commerce and income – and have always been so, with ancient amphorae with Cretan emblems found across the Mediterranean basin attesting to the fact.

 

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CATEGORY:CRETE | GUIDE

Top Wineries in Chania (part 1)

March 30, 2022

Image by congerdesign from Pixabay

 

Wine is on Cretans’ everyday tables, it takes part in celebrations and it’s surrounded by myth. Thanks to the efforts of a handful of trailblazing producers, it is also beginning to gain due recognition in the international wine scene. Meet the rising stars of these superb wineries in Chania.

 

Spanning 5.000 years of history, wine is embedded in Cretans’ lives: As an accompaniment to meals, as a welcome to friends and strangers, as a mirth-inducing toast at weddings and christenings, but also as a natural remedy for the ailments of the body, heart and spirit. And while through the centuries wine has never left the locals’ table, until recently little effort was spared to keep up with developments in techniques and presentation. With the arrival of mass tourism in the ’70s, several Cretan winemakers started using foreign, popular varieties in an attempt to please the holidaymakers – alas with dubious results. Crete became a powerhouse producer of (largely bulk) wines but serious wine production and promotion were shelved.

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CATEGORY:CRETE | PLACES

Road trip in Crete (part 2)

February 21, 2022

You’re spoilt for fascinating excursions on Crete, an island brimming with history, mystery and natural splendour. Don’t know where to start your road trip in Crete? Read on for more handpicked suggestions for routes that will remain memorable for all the right reasons

Between its exotic seascapes, rugged mountainous scenery, awe-inspiring ancient monuments and traditional villages steeped in history, Crete is pure explorers’ heaven. Of course, you’ll be tempted to just lounge and get pampered poolside at the Oscar Suites & Village –you chose it for its signature mix of thoughtful amenities, top tier accommodation, genuinely friendly atmosphere and indulgent services, after all. But your cocooned base at the long and sandy beach of Agia Marina -Platanias, is also ideally positioned for all sorts of escapades and amazing discoveries on Greece’s largest island. Think sun-kissed striking nature, mouthwatering food, locals who recite impromptu mantinades and the weight of history manifested in every nook and cranny.

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