Villa Amalia is located in a quiet area, only 2,5km from the world famous archaeological site of Aptera. The area is situated on a hillside approximately one kilometer inland from the bay of Souda and only a 15 minute drive from Chania. Once you are within the village of Aptera you will realize the geographical importance this ancient city once had with magnificent views of the bay of Souda, to great views west to east, not forgetting the Lefka Ori mountains (white mountains) to the south of the village.
This spectacular site of great archeological importance is referred to in Linear B tablets from the 14th-13th centuries BC. The city had its stronghold in the Minoan through to Hellenistic times, but struggled to keep any more than its name after a big earthquake during the 7th century. A four kilometer stretch of wall is however still intact to this day and there are many other remains and ruins to be enjoyed from the small temple dating back to the Classical period to an ancient theatre.
Another place of interest in Aptera is the St John Theologos Monastery, which dates back to the 12th Century. This squared monastary enclosure is a great place to visit to get a true feel of how the monks lived and used this place through the centuries. The monastery was habited and in operation through to 1964. Nowadays, the archeological site is maintained by the Greek Ministry of Culture, and it is a “must” place to be visited when in Chania or the nearby villages.
For visitors, the ability to be so close to the ancient ruins and feel the history of the area dating back so far, can often be too much to comprehend. And with the beauty of the area and the close proximity to Chania, beaches, local quaint tavernas and nature - makes this area truly special and a place worth visiting.