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Ancient Aptera is one of the most significant archaeological sites in Western Crete, located just a 10-minute walk from Althea Maisonettes. Built on a hill overlooking Souda Bay, the city flourished from Minoan times through the Roman era as a powerful city-state.
Excavations have uncovered impressive remains, including Roman vaulted cisterns, a private Roman villa, sanctuaries, storerooms, and the ancient theater — the only fully restored ancient theater in Crete. The city was protected by strong fortification walls stretching about 4 kilometers, parts of which are still well preserved.
Aptera offers a tranquil atmosphere and a deep sense of history, perfect for peaceful walks among centuries of civilization. Artifacts from the site are displayed at the Archaeological Museum of Chania.
The archaeological site is open to the public daily (except Mondays) from 08:30 to 15:00. During the summer, open-air music and theater performances are occasionally held there under the full moon.
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