Chania prefecture is a remarkable region, especially for history buffs and those interested in ancient civilizations. Apart from the ancient Minoan ruins and the findings of the ancient city of Kydonia, Chania is home to other historical cities during the Classical and Roman periods.
Lissos, for example, may be accessed by boat or by hiking for around half an hour from Sougia. Most people choose the latter route since it allows them to pass through a breathtakingly beautiful canyon before continuing on to fantastic scenic mountains and then falling into the azure sea.
During the Hellenistic and Roman eras, Lissos was a thriving metropolis. It was formerly the ecclesiastical capital of South West Crete and, aside from Irtakina, the only city in the region to make gold coins. There are several remains in the vicinity, the most famous of which being the Temple of Asklepios, the Greek deity of healing.
The Dorian-style temple, which dates from the first to second centuries AD, is located on the southern border of the sanctuary’s terrace. The mud brick walls with a white marble revetment have been maintained to a height of 3.4 meters. The temple’s floor featured a mosaic of fine, colorful stones in intricate geometric and animal forms.
Many sculptures and Roman graves, including those of Asklepios, Hygeia, and Pluto, have been discovered here. Two marble columns are also maintained within the temple, in addition to the sculptures.
