Greek name of the island: Κρητη (Kriti)
Land area: 8,335 km²
Island capital: Iráklio (German "Heraklion" or "Iraklion")
Population: approx. 625,000 (as of 2021)
Language: Modern Greek
Communication: Greek, English, German
Religion: Predominantly Greek Orthodox
Geographical position: 35° 20' N, 25° 08' E (Iráklio)
Currency: Euro
Time zone: CET/CEST + 1h
The island is divided into 4 provinces:
Chania, district town of Chania,
Rethymno, district town of Rethymnon,
Iraklio, district town of Iraklion and
Lasithi, capital Agios Nikolaos.
Its size, diversity, climate and easy accessibility have made Crete a popular holiday destination. The hospitality of the Cretans is very pronounced and the prices are - compared to many other destinations - affordable.
Tourism, agriculture and livestock farming are the main sources of income for the people of Crete. In the small towns, you will often encounter older inhabitants in traditional costumes, or on a donkey as a means of transport.
Mountains make up the majority of the Cretan landscape; flatlands are found almost exclusively near the coast. In the west of Crete, the White Mountains of Madares rise to an altitude of almost 2,500 metres.
In the centre of the island are the Lasithi Mountains, a mountain range with a maximum height of 2145 metres. The Lasithi plateau is the most important cultivation area in Crete: this is where most of Crete's vegetables are grown. Crete offers some spectacular gorges, most of which start in the mountains and lead into the sea. The most famous and longest gorge in Europe is the Samaria Gorge.
The Cretan coasts offer a varied mix of sandy beaches in the north and small bays in the south - often with pebble beaches - where those seeking peace and quiet can enjoy the sea undisturbed away from the tourist crowds.