Exploring the Magnificence of Greek History Through Sailing

The Greek islands, apart from their natural beauty, are also connected with the history of ancient Greece. Archaeological sites, historical buildings with architectural interest and museums take you back in time.

If you love history and exploring remains of ancient civilizations and you have organised a sailing vacation for this summer, then here you can find some of the top historical spots to visit while enjoying your time on the crystal clear, blue waters Greece has to offer. 

Ancient Delos

In the heart of the Aegean, the small Delos is one of the most important islands in Greece for its archaeological findings. The island is known for the alliance of Delos and as the birthplace of the god Apollo and the goddess Artemis. It is a top destination for those who love ancient history and art. The whole of Delos is essentially an archaeological site and is a UNESCO world cultural heritage site. In the Archaeological Museum of Delos, thousands of findings from the excavations on the island are kept, including vases, figurines, statues, mosaics, inscriptions, etc.

Palace of Knossos, Crete

The centre of the Minoan civilization, Crete, hosts many monuments, sites and museums of great archaeological importance. The Palace of Knossos, one of Greece’s greatest ancient monuments, is a must-see while visiting the island. The Late Minoan era archaeological site has undergone a superb restoration. As with many archaeological sites in Greece, some parts of this location take a little bit of imagination, even though the existing structures give you a good feel of what it previously looked like.

Much further south, 55 kilometres from Heraklion, is the Minoan palace of Phaistos. The archaeological site in Phaistos has been found to date back to 6,000 BCE. The famous disk of Phaistos was also found there, which is today in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

Rhodes Old Town

Rhodes, the largest of the Dodecanese islands, is located in the Aegean Sea not far from Turkey. One of Greece’s main tourist sites is Rhodes Town, the capital and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Only in 1948 did Greece annexe the island of Rhodes and the remainder of the Dodecanese. It had previously been inhabited by the Knights Hospitaller and the Ottomans, and the Italians had lived there for a short period before that. 

The Knights of St. John constructed a stunning fortress system around the Old Town after seizing control of the island in the 14th century, which includes imposing towers and gates.

Corfu

Corfu, one of Greece’s most popular tourist destinations, is located in the Ionian Sea off the country’s western coast. The magnificent Italianate architecture of Corfu Town, the island’s capital and longtime Venetian stronghold has earned its recognition as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The various historic and architectural attractions, including the Venetian castles and neoclassical homes, are accessible to visitors when they promenade the cobblestoned streets. Additionally, there are a few museums where you may learn more about Greek culture throughout the ages. 

Naxos

The first thing you notice when you arrive at the port of Naxos is the dazzling Portara gate on the islet of Palatia. The monument, which is the emblem of the island, was the marble gate of a temple dedicated to the god Apollo. The archaeological museum of Epiranthos hosts figurines, vases and small objects from the prehistoric and ancient periods. Also, in the village of Sagri, about 30 minutes from Naxos Town, you can visit the temple of Demeter and its museum.

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