Chrysi, Protected island in Ierapetra Municipality, Greece
Description
Chrysi is a small protected island in Ierapetra Municipality with golden beaches, clear waters, and diverse natural features to explore. The island offers both coastal swimming areas and inland landscapes shaped by wind and time.
History
The island was inhabited during Minoan times, as excavations from 2018 to 2019 revealed dwellings and precious objects from the 2nd millennium BC. This early presence shows how people established communities here thousands of years ago.
Culture
The Church of Saint Nicholas on the northwestern coast has anchored spiritual life here for centuries, reflecting how communities maintained religious ties across generations. Visitors can see how this sacred space continues to shape the island's identity.
Practical
Boat services from Ierapetra run mainly from May through October when the weather is warmest. Visitors should plan trips during these months when boats are scheduled and conditions are best for swimming and exploring.
Did you know?
The island holds one of Europe's largest natural groves of Lebanon cedar trees, with some individuals reaching ages around 300 years. This rare forest type is an unexpected feature on this Mediterranean island.
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27.5 km
Ha Gorge
26.4 km
Sarakina Gorge
23.6 km
Myrtos Pyrgos
18.4 km
Milona Gorge
22.3 km
Kavousi Vronda
29.8 km
Ierapetra mosque
15.1 km
Fournou Korifi
17.5 km
Priniatikos Pyrgos
28.5 km
Katalymata
26.4 km
Orino Gorge
28.2 km
Vrokastro
27.8 km
Vasiliki Minoan site
25.2 km
Sanctuary of Kato Symi
27.9 km
Chalasmenos
26.1 km
Minoan villa of Makrygialos
30 km
Long Beach
18.1 km
Kastro Kales
14.9 km
Achlia Schinokapsalon
24 km
Archaeological museum of Ierapetra
15.4 km
Saint George church, Ierapetra
15.3 km
Bust of Nikos Stratakis, Ierapetra
15.4 km
Milona waterfall
22.1 km
Old Ottoman school of Ierapetra
15.4 km
Bridge of Kryopotamou, Myrto
20.6 km
Nisos Chrysi
109 m
Koules of Vasiliki
24.8 km
Kato Vrysi, Anatoli
20.1 kmDiscover hidden gems everywhere you go!
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