Archanes

Archanes is a municipality in the Heraklion Prefecture. It is the archaeological site of an ancient Minoan era. The discovery of ancient roads leading from Archanes to the cave of Anemospilia in Juktas Mountain, the spring of Xeri Kara and the palace of Vathypetro indicate that Archanes was an important hub in the region during the Minoan times. Archaeological evidence indicates that ancient Archanes were spread out over the same area as the modern town of Archanes. This large picturesque village has a constrained but selected variety of places to stay. It has been restored and beautified with European Union funds, as well as private initiative and is well worth a visit. Furthermore, one can visit the museums that operate in Archanes, the important archaeological sites (Fourni, Tourkogeitonia) and the historical monuments (bridge in Karydaki). The residents of the village are proud of their successful efforts to keep the place alive, clean, traditional and beautiful. It is no surprise that Archanes has won awards - 2nd best restored village in Europe and 1st, in long term, development prospects. Streets have been newly stone-paved, there are more splendid displays of blooming flowers, fruit trees and plants in the yards, terraces and balconies of the houses. Archanes' climate is typical temperate Mediterranean with mild winters and sweet warm summers.