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In the middle of the Mediterranean Sea you will find the southern point of
Greece, the historical Crete, the island with the tough, uncompromising but
hospitable and friendly locals, the motherland of many famous and important
people, such as Eleftherios Venizelos. It is the biggest island in size in
Greece and the fifth biggest in the Mediterranean, famous for its perfect
climate and its quantity and
quality of natural sites and natural beauty.
The central point in the crossroads of 3 continents since
ancient times, where the Minoian Civilization was created, Crete is a place of
innumerous historical sites, even though many races have passed through and have
left their impression on the sites and on the island. With a large tourist
market, large and modern cities but still maintaining the charming traditional
island colors, gathers thousands of visitors every year that are sure to enjoy
unforgettable holidays. The island is divided in four counties:
Chania, Rethymno, Heraklion and Lasithi.
Population: close to 600,000. The
population of Greece is 10,665,989 (2003
estimate).
Language: Greek
Religion:
Greek Orthodox
Currency: Euro
Crete island lies at
the point where the continents of Europe, Asia and Africa meet. It is the fifth
largest island in the Mediterranean with an area of 8,335 square kilometers. It
has an elongated shape with an east-west axis and a length of 257km and a
maximum width of 60km. However, in the area of Ierapetra, Crete is only 12km
wide.
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