MUNICIPALITY OF PLATANIA
Continuing along the coast from Platanias you pass through more tranquil districts with comfortable homes for those wishing to relax, but not too far from the cosmopolitan life offered by the amusement centres in the coastal villages. The beaches are large and ideal for sea sports. In this area, as at Calatas, the most dramatic events of the Battle of Crete were played out in 1941, when the Allies and the Cretans fought side by side to defend the island. Relics of those times are the old airfield at Maleme and the iron bridge on the old road. A place of remembrance and reconcilation is the German Cemetery at Vlacheronitsa; it is a place for contemplation, but also for enjoying the view. In addition to strolls on the seashore, recreation in the various centres and the good food, you can visit the inland villages and see the daily life of the inhabitants. There are also longer excursions to Kisamos, or boat trips to beautiful Menies with its ancient temple of Diktyna. There are fine Byzantine monuments to visit on the route from Kolymbari (Monastery of Conia) to Deliana, the most interesting being the Church of Michael Archangelos at Episcopi, the Panayia at Spilia and Ayios loannis at Deliana. The river Platanias, the ancient lardanos flows amidst orange and olive groves and tavernas offer fresh fish and local delicacies.
 |
