A Minoan Settlement in the Heart of Crete
The archaeological site of Vassiliki offers fascinating insights into Minoan culture and is a worthwhile destination for culturally interested travelers.
📍 Vassiliki: Location & Access
Vassiliki is located in the Lasithi regional unit on Crete, about 500 m southeast of the village of the same name and approximately 3 km from the Cretan Sea. The site is situated on a hill called Kefali, strategically overlooking the Isthmus of Ierapetra. From the town of Pachia Ammos, the excavation can be reached via a side road towards Vasiliki; a short footpath leads to the entrance of the fenced area.
🏺 History & Significance
The settlement was first established around 2600 BC during the Early Minoan II period and was inhabited until approximately 1600 BC. It flourished during the Middle Minoan IA period (2200–1900 BC). Vassiliki is particularly known for the ceramic style named after it, featuring mottled surfaces achieved through uneven firing, which was prevalent in eastern and southern Crete during this time.
🔎 Excavations & Findings
Initial excavations were conducted between 1903 and 1906 by Richard B. Seager, followed by Nikolaos Platon in 1953. From 1970, Antonios A. Zois led systematic excavations until 1982 and resumed them in 1990. Zois demonstrated that the settlement comprised several closely situated houses built in successive phases.
Notable findings include:
- The “Red House”: Named for its red plaster, dating to the Early Minoan IIB period.
- The “West House”: Also from the Early Minoan IIB period, notable for its complex layout.
- Vassiliki-style pottery: Characterized by mottled surfaces created through uneven firing.
ℹ️ Visitor Information
- Opening Hours: Daily from 08:30–15:30 (Closed on Tuesdays)
- Admission 2025: Adults €3, Reduced €2
- Contact: Phone: +30 28420 93028 |
- Directions: From Agios Nikolaos, take the national road towards Ierapetra; shortly after Pachia Ammos, turn right towards Vasiliki; the route is signposted.