Byzantine walls

It is worth venturing into the ancient Byzantine area (Kastelli Hill, Acropolis of Kydonia) which is located beyond the Venetian walls in the heart of the harbour. Remarkable are the archaeological finds, the walls, the monuments and the mansions of the area.
Perimeter: 1 km pedestrian street
Points of interest: Fortification walls, Minoan discoveries, Santa Maria dei Miracoli Monastery

Ancient Kydonia

From their suites, our guests see a low, walled hill across the old harbour. This is the hill of Kastelli on which the ancient city of Kydonia was located. The low hill has always been a natural fortress. Nowadays, there are only parts of the original Byzantine wall left. The contour of the wall is irregular, oval, and traces the natural shape of the hill.

castel vecchio

The Byzantine wall was repaired and used by the Venetians who also built the Duomo, their cathedral, here. The cathedral was however destroyed during the bombings of World War II.
To follow the course of the wall, it is best to start from Sintrivani Square, the square with the fountain by the old harbour (at the end of Halidon Street). From here, walk along the harbour, keeping the water on your left. Walk past the old Kyuchuk Hassan mosque, take the side road at the back of the Pallas café until you reach the Great Arsenali and Katechaki Square where the Mikis Theodorakis Theatre is located. Follow the square right around until it meets Archoleon street and then Sifaka street.

Sifaka street is a lovely pedestrianised area from where you can observe are large parts of the old Byzantine wall. Walking down Sifaka street will find yourself back by the harbour, where you started.

Take your time to walk around and explore the ancient Minoan Kydonia, it is more than worth it. Many of the artefacts that were found here are on display in the Archaeological Museum.