Crete is a paradise for lovers of history and archaeology.  Being the cradle of European civilisation the island is covered in ancient remains and it is impossible to travel far without coming across some evidence of the numerous invasions the island has sufferred and the different peoples who have lived here over time. Ther are pre-historic, Minoan, Roman, Greek, Venetian, Turkish and even German WW2 sites to explore and photograph - many within just a short drive of Villa Mia.

Within less than 5 minutes stroll are Venetian wells and within sight on the horizon are the remains of one of the largest Greco-Roman city-states on the island : Aptera. This is a fascinating site which is still only partly excavated, about 20 minutes drive away, and is ideal for exploring.

Elsewhere the island is covered in ancient churches and chapels of all shapes and sizes, some hewn from sold rock with "modern" frontages, and many containing stunning icons and carvings.