The Ancient City Of Hersonisos

The city of Hersonissos today still has the same name as the ancient city Hersonissos or Herronisos. The place has been inhabited since the Minoan years. It is no wonder since the climate is very good and the natural port created by the hill Kastri was facilitating commerce and sea communication. In Hellenistic times it was used as the main port of the powerful city of Lyttos. Hersonissos used to have its own currency, with the symbol of a ship bow. However, it wasn’t until the Roman occupation that the city grew even more. The degree of advancement is manifested by the ancient buildings that have been discovered at the excavations, such as the early Christian basilicas in Kastri and Agios Nikolaos, tombs with gifts, etc. During the time that the Turks occupied the island, the port was used to supply the rebels. Later on, the products of the area (oil and carob) were exported from Hersonissos.

If the visitor begins from the west side of the coastal road of the area, they shall come across the Cape of Sarantari with the church of Agios Georgios. hersonissos hotels crete After that one can find the bays of Hersonissos, Limanakia, with their beautiful sandy beaches, the cafes and the seaside restaurants. East of that area lies the Kastri hill. Continuing along the hill, one will discover the busy beaches of the eastern Hersonissos along with the big hotels.