Exploring the Rich History of Elounda: Must-Visit Archaeological Sites

Nestled on Crete’s northeastern coast, Elounda is not only a serene retreat of natural beauty and luxury living—it is also a destination deeply rooted in ancient history. Beyond its crystal-clear waters and world-class hospitality, Elounda invites curious travelers to step back in time and explore the remnants of civilizations that shaped the region over millennia.

Let’s dive into a journey through the must-visit archaeological sites around Elounda, each echoing stories of Crete’s glorious past.

Do You Know The Sunken City of Olous?

Just a short walk from Elounda’s main town lies one of the most intriguing sites: the ancient city of Olous (or Olus). Once a thriving Minoan and later Dorian settlement, Olous now rests partially submerged beneath the sea, with visible ruins scattered along the shoreline and below the surface.

Wander along the causeway connecting Elounda to the Kolokytha Peninsula, and you’ll spot remnants of walls, inscriptions, and structures that belonged to temples dedicated to deities like Artemis and Zeus Tallaeus. Snorkeling in the calm bay reveals traces of the city’s past, offering a unique underwater archaeological experience.

Visiting The Fortress of Spinalonga

Perhaps the most famous historical landmark in the area, Spinalonga is more than just a scenic islet. Originally fortified by the Venetians in the 16th century to protect the Mirabello Bay, the island later became known as Greece’s leper colony from 1903 to 1957.

Today, the ruins of Venetian bastions, Ottoman houses, and neoclassical structures paint a vivid picture of the island’s multi-layered history. A short boat ride from Elounda or Plaka, Spinalonga invites visitors to walk along its stone-paved alleys and reflect on the resilience of its former inhabitants.

Exploring Kolokytha Peninsula: Hidden Ruins and Byzantine Charm

Just across from Elounda, the Kolokytha Peninsula is a rugged paradise for explorers. While best known for its stunning beaches, the peninsula is also home to small Byzantine chapels and scattered ruins, offering a quieter, off-the-beaten-path experience of Elounda’s past.

One such gem is the church of Agios Fokas, built atop ancient remains and offering panoramic views of the bay. Hike through its trails, and you may come across fragments of old farmsteads, cisterns, and shepherd shelters that speak to centuries of rural life.

Let’s Talk About Lato: A City of Warriors and Artisans

While slightly farther inland, the archaeological site of Lato is well worth the 45-minute drive from Elounda. Set between two hills with sweeping views of the surrounding valley, Lato was one of the most powerful Doric city-states in Crete during the Classical period.

Excavations reveal a well-organized urban layout, including an agora, temple, theater, and residential quarters. Lato is believed to be the birthplace of Nearchus, Alexander the Great’s admiral, adding a touch of legendary allure to its historic ruins.

Get Impressed by The Minoan Palace of Malia

A short journey eastward brings you to the Minoan Palace of Malia, one of the major palatial centers of Minoan civilization. Known for its open courtyards, complex storage systems, and finely crafted artifacts, Malia offers insight into the social and religious life of the Minoans. The site combines grandeur with intimacy—unlike the more imposing Knossos—and its coastal setting makes it an ideal day trip from Elounda.

A Journey Through Time, from Domes to Discoveries

Staying at Domes of Elounda or Domes Aulūs Elounda, you are not just indulging in world-class hospitality, but immersing yourself in a landscape shaped by centuries of myth, culture, and resilience—an intimate dialogue with Crete’s storied past.