Car Rental in Heraklion – Discover Ancient Gortys with AutoClubRent

Visit Ancient Gortys – The Forgotten Capital of Crete

Gortys (also known as Gortyn) is one of the most historically significant archaeological sites in Crete, located in the fertile Mesara Plain. With a rich history spanning from the Neolithic period to the early Byzantine era, Gortys offers a fascinating glimpse into Crete’s Roman and early Christian past. Thanks to AutoClubRent, visiting this unique site just a short drive from Heraklion is now easier than ever.

Historical Importance of Gortys

The area has been inhabited since the Neolithic era and thrived during the Minoan period, as shown by discoveries such as the country villa at Kannia. By the 1st millennium BC, Gortys had replaced Phaistos as the main city of the region, building its power around the acropolis and the temple of Athena Poliouchos.

In 67 BC, after the Roman conquest of Crete, Gortys became the capital of Roman Crete and Cyrenaica. It retained this status until the Arab conquest in 828 AD. The city reached its height in the 2nd century AD and continued to thrive into the early Christian period. However, a devastating earthquake in 796 AD and the later Arab invasion marked its decline.

The Law Code of Gortys and the Great Inscription

One of the most remarkable findings in Gortys is the Great Inscription, which contains the Law Code of Gortys—the oldest and most complete example of ancient Greek law ever found. Discovered in 1884 by Iosif Hatzidakis, Stefano Xanthoudidis, and Italian archaeologist Federico Halbherr, it drew the attention of the European academic world and began a long period of excavation.

What to See at the Gortys Archaeological Site

Although only a small portion of the ancient city is accessible to the public, the site is rich in ruins and surprises. Visitors can explore:

The Church of Saint Titus – the patron saint of Crete.
The Roman Odeon – a beautifully preserved ancient theater.
The Plane Tree of Zeus and Europa – a mythological landmark of love and legend.
The Praetorium – the luxurious seat of the Roman governor (not open to the public, but visible through fencing).
Early Christian Basilica – the largest of its kind on the island, showcasing architectural splendor.

Beyond the Fenced Areas

Curious visitors who follow the blue signs near the entrance will be rewarded with views of unexcavated treasures and ancient ruins rarely seen by the average tourist. The site spans a large area and includes roads leading to Mitropolis and Phaistos, offering a full historical day trip.

Explore Gortys with AutoClubRent

Thanks to AutoClubRent, you can reach the archaeological site of Gortys in comfort and with full flexibility. Located about 45 km south of Heraklion, it’s the perfect day trip for travelers who want to dive deep into Crete’s ancient past.