Crete Locals

Archanes near Heraklion draws attention for its colorful traditional architecture

· By CreteLocals Editorial Team
Archanes near Heraklion draws attention for its colorful traditional architecture

Archanes, a traditional settlement located about 14 kilometers south of the city of Heraklion, has become known for its colorful restored houses, flower-filled courtyards and cobbled lanes, according to a report by cretaone.gr.

The village sits at an altitude of roughly 380 to 400 meters within the wider valley below Mount Juktas, in an area closely associated with vineyards and olive groves.

Restored architecture

Old houses and mansions in Archanes have been restored, and the settlement has been cited as an example of organized residential redevelopment. According to the report, Archanes has received a European-level award for its residential regeneration.

Links to Minoan history

The area of Archanes is closely connected to Minoan Crete and is considered a significant archaeological site, located about 7 kilometers from Knossos.

Village life continues

Much of daily life in Archanes is centered around its central square and narrow streets, where cafes, taverns and small shops operate. The report describes the village as an active settlement rather than a preserved architectural showcase, with old buildings still in everyday use.

According to the official Heraklion tourism guide, cited in the report, Archanes was included in a CNN Travel list of 17 beautiful villages of the Mediterranean.

Latest News

Seven Crete beaches worth visiting after 6pm, CretaOne suggestsSeven Crete beaches worth visiting after 6pm, CretaOne suggestsCretaOne highlights seven Crete beaches across Chania, Heraklion and Rethymno that it says are worth visiting in the late afternoon.Crete forecast: clear skies and highs up to 34°C on Monday, August 17Crete forecast: clear skies and highs up to 34°C on Monday, August 17The National Meteorological Service forecasts generally clear skies for Crete on Monday, with temperatures reaching 30-34°C and winds up to 6 Beaufort.Seven driving routes across Crete worth taking at least onceSeven driving routes across Crete worth taking at least onceZarpanews highlights seven car routes across Crete, from Heraklion's Knossos to the Nida Plateau and Elounda, showcasing the island's inland and coastal…Hilton, Marriott, Rosewood and 1 Hotels plan new luxury hotels in CreteHilton, Marriott, Rosewood and 1 Hotels plan new luxury hotels in CreteInternational hotel groups Hilton, Marriott, Rosewood and 1 Hotels are developing new luxury properties in Heraklion and Elounda through 2028, according to…Chania lifts swimming ban at Nea Chora beach, keeps restriction near Kladissos riverChania lifts swimming ban at Nea Chora beach, keeps restriction near Kladissos riverChania authorities have declared Nea Chora beach safe for swimming after lab tests, but the ban remains near the Kladissos river mouth.Ano Viannos olive festival draws large crowds in its third yearAno Viannos olive festival draws large crowds in its third yearThe 3rd Olive and Olive Oil Festival in Ano Viannos concluded with strong attendance, as the mayor called for more support for…Seven Cretan village names trace back to Byzantine families, geography and local legendSeven Cretan village names trace back to Byzantine families, geography and local legendA feature explores the origins of seven Cretan village names, linking them to geography, Byzantine settlers and local tradition.Five spots in Crete draw comparisons to exotic destinations abroadFive spots in Crete draw comparisons to exotic destinations abroadTurquoise lagoons, palm groves and rugged gorges give several Crete locations, from Balos to Vai, the look of far-flung destinations.Crete under "Red Code" again as fire risk reaches very high levelCrete under “Red Code” again as fire risk reaches very high levelCrete remains under a Red Code fire alert on Sunday as Greece's Civil Protection agency forecasts very high wildfire risk across the…Rethymno region features 18 notable beaches along Crete's coastlineRethymno region features 18 notable beaches along Crete’s coastlineA guide describes 18 beaches across the Rethymno region of Crete, from Preveli to Fotinari, noting their access, terrain and wildlife.

© All rights reserved. Crete Locals