ANCIENT APTARA
19 May 2015 | APTARA, CRETE
Nancy
We visited one of the most important city states of early CRETE, 13th century BC. James, our friend and a leading Cretan historian, was our guide. Located at the harbor to the east of Chania. With its prominence at the high point at the entrance to Suda Bay, sea traffic was controlled and development followed. The greatest height of the city's influence was in 400-300 BC when it was prosperous, minted coins, and developed relations during this Hellenistic period.
Aptara was destroyed by earthquake in 700 AD and evidence clearly shows that the city was abandoned at that time.
Main entrance leading to ancient city. The road and fortifications were built (probably) mid 4th century BC.
If time had permitted while here, we would have driven the two hours to the southern coast and the site of ancient Kommos that Is the passion of James. Under his direction, meetings with relevant authorities are being held and contracts to be signed for architectural surveys. Not yet open to the public, this will be another important link in the history of Crete.....
www.kommosconservancy.org