Ancient Aptera

Aptera, one of the most important city-states of ancient Crete, is situated in a panoramic position dominating the bay of Souda. Although it is now in ruins, its ruins bear witness to the prosperity and power this city once enjoyed.Aptera was founded in the 8th century BC and flourished in the Hellenistic period. Its strategic position, which allowed it to control the bay and the surrounding areas, made it an important commercial centre. The city had two ports, Kissamos and Minos, and had developed close links with other major centres of the Hellenistic territory.Aptera was destroyed by powerful earthquakes in late antiquity and remains ruined to this day. The ruins of the city include walls, a theatre, sanctuaries, public buildings and houses, which testify to its prosperity.