Crete

Crete

Crete is a Greek island, the largest and most populous of the country and the fifth by extension, with its 8,261 km², among those in the Mediterranean.
Crete has about 623,000 inhabitants and the capital is Candia with over 159,000 inhabitants.

Etymology –
The term “Crete” comes from the ancient Greek “Kritē” and means “island” or “land”. Its etymological origin is probably linked to the elongated shape of the island.

Geographic Features –
Crete is the largest of the Greek islands and is located in the eastern Mediterranean Sea. It is located south of mainland Greece, separated by an inlet called the Cretan Sea. The island has an elongated shape and is approximately 260 km long and 60 km wide. Its territory is mountainous, with a central mountain range called the Monti Bianchi extending almost the entire length of the island. The Cretan coast is characterized by numerous coves, bays and sandy beaches.

Historical Notes –
Crete has an ancient and rich history. It was the center of the Minoan civilization, one of the first advanced civilizations of Europe, which flourished between 2600 and 1400 BC. The island was successively occupied by several powers, including Mycenaeans, Dorians, Romans, Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians and Ottomans. During the Second World War, Crete was the scene of a major battle between the Allied forces and the German army. Today, the island is an autonomous region of Greece.

Ecosystem –
The ecosystem of Crete is very diverse due to its geographical location and climate. The island features a combination of habitats ranging from rocky and forested mountains to fertile lowlands and sandy shores. This favors the presence of a great variety of plant and animal species.

Flora –
The flora of Crete is characterized by a wide range of plants. The mountains are covered with pine, fir and cypress forests, while in the plains there are olive trees, vines and citrus fruits. The island is also famous for its aromatic herbs, such as thyme, mint and oregano, which grow wild in nature.

Wildlife –
The fauna of Crete includes a variety of terrestrial and marine species. Among the mammals present on the island are the Cretan hare, the wild cat, the marten and several species of bats. In the waters surrounding the island you can find dolphins, sea turtles and a large variety of fish.

Environmental Protection Actions –
The conservation of Crete’s natural environment is a priority for local and national authorities. Several conservation actions have been taken to protect the island’s flora, fauna and ecosystems. This includes creating national parks and nature reserves, implementing laws to protect endangered species, and promoting sustainable practices in agriculture and tourism. In addition, awareness campaigns are organized to educate the population and visitors about the importance of environmental conservation.

Guido Bissanti