Agios Nikolaos

Agios Nikolaos, the capital of Lassithi, is a picturesque and popular resort in Mirabello Bay. The harbor area is full of activity as well as restaurants and cafes,which  create a cosmopolitan atmosphere. The city has still  retained its traditional style. The  Lake is the most beautiful ornament of the city. The legends bear Athena and Artemis bathing in its waters. Joined to the sea by a narrow channel, while its natural surroundings of red rock and trees makes it a magnet for visitors. In the small theater of Lake locals and visitors alike can enjoy interesting artistic events.

You can easily reach Agios Nikolaos in about an hour from Heraklion from where it is 75 km, approximately 1.5 hours from Sitia from where is 70 kilometers and approximately 45 minutes from Ierapetra from which is 36 km.

The story of St. Nicholas begins in ancient times when it was the port of Lato, a strong city during the Hellenistic Period. The port was used even during the Roman times and the first Byzantine period, although its importance has diminished considerably. After that disappeared from history to reappear in 1206. Then the Genovese built the castle of Mirabello and gave its name to the city and the bay. An earthquake destroyed the castle and there is no trace of the ruins. In the 16th century, the Venetians gave the town its current name, which is taken from the Chapel of St. Nicholas located at the Port peninsula . During the Ottoman rule the town was uninhabited and inhabited again only after 1870, mainly from individuals who escaped from the persecution of the Turks.