Sitia (Sitea) is a charming, intimate town located on the northeastern coast of Crete. It is a peaceful oasis, very different from the large, bustling cities of western Crete such as Heraklion, Rethymno or Chania. It is an ideal place for those who value tranquillity and a cosy, almost family like atmosphere. Strolling along the seafront promenade or enjoying coffee in seaside cafés feels different here than in the crowded tourist centres of the west. And interestingly… there is plenty to see.
The port — surrounded by a promenade decorated with pebble mosaics of fish — and the nearby ponds where swans, geese and cormorants swim add charm to the town’s atmosphere. The Venetian Kazarma Fortress, standing on a hill above the town, recalls the turbulent history of Sitia and the region. It once served as a military garrison during Venetian rule. Archaeological sites in Sitia itself, in Petras and in nearby Palekastro offer unforgettable encounters with antiquity. The regional archaeological museum is modest and intimate, yet well worth a visit.
Picturesque hillside streets, family run shops and the traditional Tuesday market reflect the living traditions, crafts and agriculture of the region. From Sitia, it is only a short distance to many attractions on the eastern tip of the island — Vai Beach, Toplou Monastery, the Minoan palace in Kato Zakros and the Richtis Gorge.
Like all of Crete, Sitia has had a turbulent history. The town was under Venetian rule, and because of its strategic location, the occupiers fortified it, creating one of their bases in the eastern part of the island (Kazarma Fortress). Over the centuries, the town suffered even more: an earthquake in 1508, a bloody pirate attack in 1538, and finally destruction by the Venetians themselves in 1651, fearing an Ottoman invasion. For nearly two centuries, Sitia remained abandoned. The Turkish occupiers did not encourage locals to return. Only in the second half of the 19th century, when the Ottoman governor rebuilt the town, did the population slowly come back.
Today, Sitia is a charming, quiet Greek town with an almost family like atmosphere. It is a perfect place for a peaceful siga siga holiday and for discovering the hidden treasures of Minoan culture and the traditional customs of the region.
