Kastelli: Archaeological Traces and Route to Xidas

Kastelli can be explored through two distinct themes: archaeological traces in the town centre and a route that runs through the settlement to the east and onwards towards Xidas. This makes the town interesting if, during your vacation, you want to include both historical context and a specific route in your plans. This distinction can help when planning your vacation together: you can get to know Kastelli primarily through its historical periods or use the route as the starting point for your plans.

Archaeological Traces in Kastelli

Moveable finds from the Neolithic period, architectural remains, and objects from the Early Minoan Period I–II and Middle Minoan Period I–II were discovered in the area of today’s central Meidani Square. The terms Neolithic, Early Minoan, and Middle Minoan denote different historical periods. The types of finds also offer different perspectives: moveable objects are individual artefacts, whereas architectural remains are traces of buildings. The town’s history therefore encompasses both objects and the remains of structures and spans several periods.

Another point of reference is the remains of the central archaeological building at Agios Georgios Square. The building had eight rooms and remained in use until the Late Minoan Period IB, before it was destroyed. The number of rooms makes the structure a tangible archaeological subject, while its period of use also places it in a historical timeframe. The finds at Meidani Square and this building give different emphasis to Kastelli’s Minoan history.

The Hellenistic settlement of Kastelli is another distinct historical point of reference. It was apparently destroyed around 220 BC. This means that, alongside the Minoan traces, there is further evidence from another period. Anyone interested in the town’s history can consider the different periods separately when planning a vacation, rather than combining them into a single historical picture.

The Route to Xidas

The Kastelli–Kastamonitsa–Toichos route follows Kastelli’s main road from west to east through the settlement, then continues onto the slopes east of the plain. From Kastelli’s main road, the route follows a paved road uphill towards Xidas; Xidas is reached after about three kilometres. The route plan therefore includes a passage through the town, an uphill stretch of road, and a specific destination. Check local conditions before setting out.

The route gives your plans a different focus from the archaeological themes: here, the focus is on the route and direction towards Xidas, while the historical periods and finds concern Kastelli. This distinction helps you arrange your vacation days around your interests without having to combine the two themes into a single outing.

If you are looking for a holiday apartment in Kastelli, your preferred vacation focus can help determine your choice of destination. The archaeological traces offer a cultural and historical perspective on the town; the route towards Xidas is a separate reason to include Kastelli in your travel plans. When searching, you can consider whether local history or planning a specific route is your main priority.

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For the main travel overview: Heraklion.