Uncover nearly 5,000 years of the island's naval and maritime history when you visit the Nautical Museum of Crete. Browse artifacts and exhibits from the Bronze Age up until the 20th century.
Begin your tour in the foyer, which houses exhibits devoted to the Venetian rule from 1204 to 1669. Study period models of forts and one of Chania. Nearby is a room with shelves full of seashells and containers known as amphorae that were retrieved from ancient shipwrecks.
Pick up insights into the evolution and development of ship designs by observing models of oceangoing vessels from the Bronze Age through to Roman times. Look at the stunning replica of a Minoan ship, based on a Bronze Age design. In 2004, the vessel went on an experimental voyage between Crete and Athens to show that such a trip would've been possible all those years ago.
The Nautical Museum of Crete also houses exhibits that cover more recent naval history. Look at portraits of admirals and captains who fought in the Greek War of Independence between 1821 and 1832. Study photographs, ship models and plans of naval battles from the Balkan Wars of the early 20th century.
An entire hall is devoted to World War II, particularly the monumental Battle of Crete. For 12 days Greek, English, Australian and New Zealand soldiers, along with Cretan civilians, tried to stave off a massive airborne attack by the Germans. Although the Allies ultimately had to evacuate the island, the event is remembered for this remarkable resistance against a much larger German force. Discover more about this turbulent time through photographs, weapons, models and sound recordings. See a replica of a World War II torpedo boat and the model of the bridge of a destroyer ship.
Find the Nautical Museum of Crete at the entrance of Firkas Fortress in the Venetian Port. It is open every day except for public holidays. Admission charges apply, with discounts for students and free admission for disabled persons and children under six years of age.
