Kato Zakros is a charming fishing village located in a beautiful Mediterranean bay in the southeastern part of Crete. The drive by car through mountain serpentines and gorges offers unforgettable views and many natural and cultural surprises. In its heyday, Kato Zakros was an important centre of trade with Egypt and the East. At the beginning of the 20th century, excavations began here, during which the remains of a Minoan palace and the surrounding town were discovered. It is believed that the palace had around 300 rooms, including a temple, treasury, storerooms, royal chambers, administrative rooms and various workshops (of a blacksmith, goldsmith, stonemason, potter and perfume maker). Today, the entire archaeological site is open to visitors.
In the village of Kato Zakros, along the bay, there is a small, picturesque pebble and stone beach. The shoreline is lined with atmospheric tavernas serving traditional Greek food and small, cosy studios for rent.
While in Kato Zakros, you can walk the trail through the Valley of the Dead. In Minoan times, the caves in the gorge were likely used as burial sites.
The route to Kato Zakros — through mountain paths, the ruins of the Minoan town and traditional tavernas — creates unforgettable impressions of Crete’s old and new traditions.
