Crete
Welcome to Crete, a Temperate island in the Aegean Sea, part of the majestic Atlantic Ocean. This guide offers a comprehensive overview of what makes Crete unique – from its geography and climate to its population, infrastructure, and beyond. Dive into the details:
- Geography and Size: Explore the island’s size and location.
- Climate and Weather: Weather patterns and temperature.
- Topography and Nature: Uncover the natural wonders of the island.
- Infrastructure and Travelling: Insights on reaching, staying, and making the most of your visit.
- News and Headlines: Latest News.
Geography and size of Crete
Size: 8296 km²
Coastline: 1033 km
Ocean: Atlantic Ocean
Sea: Aegean Sea
Continent: Europe
Crete is a Very Large Island spanning 8296 km² with a coastline of 1033 km.
Archipel: Mediterranean islands – Encompassing numerous islands in the Mediterranean Sea, each with its own unique culture, history, and natural beauty, from the Balearics to the Greek islands.
Tectonic Plate: Aegean Sea – Located in the eastern Mediterranean, this microplate is characterized by seismic and volcanic activity due to its interaction with the Eurasian and African Plates.
The geographic heart of the island is pinpointed at these coordinates:
Latitude: 35.23048445 / Longitude: 24.84604939
Climate and weather of Crete
Climate Zone: Temperate
Climate Details: Hot-Summer Mediterranean Climate
Temperature: Hot Summer
Climate Characteristics: Characterized by hot, dry summers and mild, wet winters, typical of coastal areas with abundant sunshine.
Topography and nature of Crete
Timezone: UTC+02:00
Timezone places: Europe/Mariehamn
Max. Elevation: 2456 m Psiloritis
Mean Elevation: 486 m
Vegetation: Agricultural Mosaic
Tree Coverage: 19%
The mean elevation is 486 m. Dominating the island’s landscape, the majestic “Psiloritis” rises as the highest peak, soaring to impressive heights. The island is characterized by Mountains: High, steeply elevated landforms. Characterized by both a high maximum elevation (over 500 meters) and a high mean elevation, creating rugged, mountainous terrains on islands.
Dominating Vegetation: Agricultural Mosaic
A mix of cropland and natural vegetation, often seen in rural landscapes where agricultural fields are interspersed with patches of natural habitats. Crete has a tree cover of 19 %.
Vegetation: 15 vegetation zones – Exceptionally Diverse Island
Islands with more than ten vegetation zones are among the most ecologically rich and varied in the world. These islands are akin to miniature continents, boasting an incredible array of ecosystems. The sheer range of habitats, from high peaks to deep valleys, rainforests to deserts, creates a mosaic of life that is unparalleled. They are crucial for conservation and ecological studies.
Infrastructure and Travelling to Crete
Does the island have a public airport? yes.
Crete has a public and scheduled airport. The following airports are located on this island: Heraklion International Nikos Kazantzakis Airport, Chania International Airport, Sitia Airport.
Does the island have a major port? yes.
Crete is home to a major port. The following ports are situated on the island: RETHIMNON.
The mean population of Crete is 77 per km². Crete is Gently Populated. The island belongs to Greece.
The name of the island resonates across different cultures and languages. Here is how it is known around the world: Arabic: كريت; German: Kreta; Spanish: Creta; French: Crète; Portuguese: Creta; Russian: Крит; Chinese: 克里特
Continuing your journey, Nisí Día is the next notable island, situated merely km away.
Exploring Crete: Greece's largest island - Mediterranean journey | DW Documentary
Greece is classified as Developed region: nonG7: Developed economies outside of the Group of Seven, characterized by high income and advanced economic structures. The level of income is High income: OECD.
News – Latest Updates and Headlines from Crete
Stay informed with the most recent news and important headlines from Crete. Here’s a roundup of the latest developments.
Social Media Posts about Crete
Please note: The data used here has been primarily extracted from satellite readings. Deviations from exact values may occur, particularly regarding the height of elevations and population density. Land area and coastline measurements refer to average values at mean high tide.