Trafos, Limestone cliff in Mires Municipal Unit, Greece.
Trafos is a small islet in the Libyan Sea off the southern coast of Crete, lying in a bay between the capes of Lithino and Kefalas at Kommos, near ancient Gortyn. It is one of four islets in the bay, together with Papadoplaka to the west, Megalonisi with its lighthouse, and Mikronisi, also called Agios Pavlos. The islet falls within the Heraklion regional unit.
The limestone layers of Trafos formed over millions of years from marine deposits in a prehistoric sea. Tectonic movements and erosion later shaped the cliff face that exists today.
Trafos is one of four islets in the bay at Kommos, together with Papadoplaka to the west, Megalonisi, which carries the lighthouse, and Mikronisi, also called Agios Pavlos. The islet lies close to Gortyn, the ancient capital of Crete, and since 2000 the sea area around it has been an archaeological zone.
Access to this cliff requires sturdy footwear and careful footing, as the ground is uneven and can be slippery in places. Bring plenty of water and sun protection, as the area offers little shade or shelter.
The cliff faces provide nesting sites for several Mediterranean bird species that use the rock crevices and cavities. These birds are easiest to observe during early morning hours and at dusk.
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