The ancient city of Phalasarna

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The ancient city of Phalasarna is located in the middle of the west coast of Crete, at the tip of the Gramvousa cape. Pottery from the surrounding area proves that the city was already inhabited in the Middle Minoan period, while its development is depicted by the Archaic and Classical tombs discovered in the nearby area.
The city was at its peak between the middle of the 4th century B.C. and the middle of the 1st century B.C. During this period a "limen kleistos" (walled harbour) was constructed, coins were issued and naval trade and warfare was developed, exploiting the city's strategic position in-between the Aegean - Egypt and Western - Eastern Mediterranean sea crossroads. The Romans destroyed the city in 67 B.C., most probably because of its turning to piracy.
Relics of houses, temples and quarries have been located around the harbour area. Today the port is found inland due to tectonic action in the Crete region. Excavation is taking place by the Ephorate of Underwater Antiquities

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