Nestled in the scenic region of Heraklion, lies the charming village of Axos Whether you choose to explore on foot or by car, the village is a must-visit for any Crete tourist With a population of 600 friendly and hospitable inhabitants, Axos offers a tranquil and authentic Greek experience
As you wander through the cobbled streets, you’ll come across quaint coffee shops where you can relax and take in the village atmosphere There are also small market stores and traditional taverns that are open mainly during the summer season The locals are known for their warm hospitality and will gladly assist you with any inquiries or requests
One of the highlights of Axos is its seven Byzantine churches, dating back over a thousand years These architectural wonders include Saint Irene with its stunning fresco wall paintings, Saint Ioannis with its intricate artwork, and the impressive temple at Timios Stavros church You can also visit Saint George, the partially destroyed church of Mihail Arhagelus, and the remains of Saint Paraskevi and Afentis Christos Please note that some of the churches may require you to request the keys from the village pastor for access
For history enthusiasts, a short drive towards Anogia will bring you to Panagia Kavousani, where you can see restored buildings and remnants of ancient frescoes Additionally, at the top of the hill, you can explore the remains of an ancient acropolis known as “Andrion”, the temple of Aphrodite Astarti, and Cyclopian walls Marvel at the incised ancient writings on the large stones, believed to be ancient laws
To top it all off, the view from the top of the hill is simply breathtaking As you take in the stunning panoramic views, you’ll understand why Axos is a must-visit destination in Crete Located 115 km from Chania Airport with a driving time of 1 hour and 55 minutes, and 46 km from Heraklion Airport with a driving time of 1 hour and 2 minutes, Axos is easily accessible for travelers So come and experience the beauty and charm of this picturesque village for yourself
