Chiana, Crete...

Chiana is a beautiful city with an interesting history. Originally a Minoan settlement, it was ruled by the Byzantines, Arabs, Venetians and Ottomans. All of this rich history has left Chiana with old Venetian walls, cathedrals which were turned into mosques and then back into cathedrals, narrow winding streets, and a beautiful harbor.

The beautiful harbor was the perfect spot for a nice greek lunch and some people watching.

We found loads of opportunities for shopping around this square!

A Christian Church converted to a Mosque and then back to a Greek Orthodox Church: the bell tower and minaret stand side by side.

We finished our tour, wondered around the old town and enjoyed lunch, and finally made our way back to the old covered market. There was an amazing variety of local specialties in addition to the typical "tourist" wares.

Corfu

Another beautiful day and yet another beautiful island on the Ionian Sea, this time Corfu. We spent a day here and thoroughly enjoyed ourselves. What's not to love about warm temperatures, abundant sunshine, beautiful surroundings, and friendly people? This island has a prominent position in Greek Mythology and is said to have hosted Poseidon. The name of the island tracks back to Poseidon and stories of his exploits....but enough of that. Scott took loads of great photos here which tell the story.

The documented history of Corfu is littered with battles and conquests so it's no surprise that there are castles and a fortress here. Two of these, along with their protective walls, actually surround Corfu town. The Greek government designated Corfu a "Kastropolis", which means castle city. The entrance to Corfu is protected by a fortress.

Achilleion is a beautiful Palace placed high up on a hillside. It was built by the Empress of Austria, Elisabeth of Bavaria, who was known to the people of Corfu as "Sissi". The gardens and views from here are really great. Sissi was exceptionally beautiful but lead a bit of a tragic life. Her legacy survives in the palace and gardens.

Elisabeth

The Grand Staircase of the Palace

Ceiling painted by Vincenzo Gallopi

The dying Achilles looking skyward to Olympus for help.
I don't think that worked out for him.

Achilles on guard

A signature spot on Corfu is the overlook of the tiny island
of Pantokrator, or Mouse Island.
The island hosts a monastery and has a white staircase that
looks like a mouse tail.

Pontikonis Island, or Mouse Island, is the home of the monastery of Pantokrator.