Lassithi: Ierapetra Lassithi

Lassithi Villages: Ierapetra village in Lassithi Crete Ierapetra Lassithi: The town of Ierapetra (Holy Stone) is located in the southern part of Crete, 35 kilometres south of Agios Nikolaos and is the largest city of this area. It is boarded by the Libyan Sea and stands on the narrowest crossing of the island. Daily buses link the town to Agios Nikolaos, Heraklion and Sitia. The town has been built on the site of ancient Ierapytna (from the Doric period), which flourished during the 2nd century BC and became the strongest city of the area during the Roman times. Ierapetra has about 11000 inhabitants who are mostly living from agriculture and tourism. It is surrounded by abundant cultivations of orange and lemon groves and groceries which are particularly productive because of the frequent days of sunshine and the warm provided by the ideal climate of the area. Remains of a fortress built by the Genovese during the 13th century AD and completed by the Venetians can still be seen.

They are known as Castle Gerapetra, Kastelli or Koule. In Ierapetra visitors can visit the beautiful mosque in the Turkish neighbourhood which is located in the old part of the city, as well as the fine Church of the Metamorfossis (Transformation) of Christ. This church was built in the 14th century AD and has fine frescoes and various other picturesque and interesting churches and chapels. Plenty of accommodations of all categories and kinds can be found in Ierapetra as well as various touristy facilities, bars, cafes and taverns, mostly boarding the harbour. Boat tours to the magical island of Gaidouronissi (Donkey Island) are organised from Ierapetra. Ierapetra Useful Links Ierapetra Restaurants   ........................................................................................................................................... Back: + Lassithi Home + Villages + Crete Islands + Crete Villages + Greece Home Related: + Villages + Churches + Museums + Beach Pictures + Pictures