Ancient Aptera was one of the most important city-states of Crete, on a strategic location in the Bay of Souda and two ports: Minoa (at Marathi) and Kisamo (at Kalives). Aptera dates back to the Minoan era, yet it thrived during the Classical and Hellenistic times. A severe earthquake in the 4th century AD caused extensive destructions in the city, which was finally abandoned in the 7th century AD, after another powerful earthquake.
Tour
There are many versions as for the origin of Aptera’s name, the most popular being the myth according to which it originated from a musical competition between the Muses and the Sirens. When the Muses won, the defeated Sirens threw away their wings, which fell into the Bay of Souda and created the white islands of the area. The Sirens were left wingless [a-pteres (without wings)], naming this way the city.
Aptera’s history begins during the Minoan era and its existence is recorded in Linear B tablets of the 14th century BC. It flourished during the Classical and Hellenistic times, when it began to mint its own coinage, built a strong fortification and a theatre. Locals were skilled archers and fought as mercenaries in various regions outside Crete, bringing wealth to Aptera.
The existence of impressive public buildings indicates that its prosperity continued in the Roman era. However, Aptera declined during the Byzantine period.
There are two water tanks preserved, particularly impressive due to their size and their state of preservation. Together with the two bath complexes further north, to which they supplied water, the two tanks were the largest public works constructed in Aptera during the Greco-Roman period.
At a central point of the ancient city, the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Theologos (St. John) is to be found. The monastery was mentioned in a Chronicle of 1181 AD.
Must see
The ancient theatre of Aptera lies at the southeastern entrance of the city. It was constructed in three phases, from the Hellenistic times to the Roman period, when it underwent complete transformation. It is situated in a natural earth concavity, facing south, overlooking the “Lefka Ori” mountains.
The main parts of the theatre, still visible today, the koilon, the orchestra, and the skené, date back to the Roman period. The theatre’s total capacity in antiquity is estimated at 3,700 spectators. Its orchestra, with a radius of only 5.45 m, is one of the smallest orchestras in an ancient theatre, which suggests that it was mainly intended for musical and theatrical events.
The ancient cobbled street on the eastern side of the theatre is also remarkable, dating back to the Hellenistic period, while it is 55 m long and preserved in very good condition.
More Information
- Accessible for people with special needs: Only the sanitary facilities. There is an information sign for the visually impaired in the theatre area.
- Telephone: +30 28250 33425, +30 28210 44418 & 94487
- Email: efacha@culture.gr