Have you ever heard about the “golden island” near Romania that is almost deserted? It has a history spanning thousands of years. Few tourists have heard of it, however. The landscapes here simply take your breath away. Photo
The “golden island” near Romania
Close to Romania, about 15 kilometers south of Crete, in the Libyan Sea, an almost deserted island is hidden, with a long and interesting history spanning thousands of years. It is not at all large in area, being only about 6 square kilometers and 7 kilometers long. It is known as the “Island of Gold” because of its wild beauty.
The island of Chrissi or Gavdos, because it is about it, has exotic beaches and a sand that literally shines on absolutely the entire coastline, hence the name “Golden Island”. It was not always deserted, but its history can be associated with nature rather than with people.
The Tumultuous History of the “Island of Gold”
During the ancient period, the island of Chrissi was inhabited by the ancient Minoans. They developed agricultural land here. Researchers have discovered several ruins of early Minoan settlements in the area, including a small palace and numerous tombs.
During the Roman period, the island of Chrissi was used as a stopping point for commercial ships heading to the Mediterranean Sea. At that time, it was constantly inhabited, representing a point of strategic importance for the control and administration of trade routes in the area.
During the Middle Ages, things changed. The “golden island” came under the rule of the Byzantine Empire and the Venetian Republic. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it became a place of refuge for smugglers, precisely because it was (and is) quite isolated and difficult to access.
It was later occupied by German troops, who built bunkers and coastal guns to protect the area. According to some rumors, military structures can still be seen on the island today.
You must also visit Chrissi Island
Beyond its tumultuous history, the “golden island” near our country is a special attraction for tourists. Its beaches are simply magical, crystal clear water and nature, in its wildest form, managing to create a setting as if torn from stories. We don’t need to tell you more, because the images in the PHOTO gallery speak for themselves.
Currently, Chrissi Island, of breathtaking beauty, is part of a park whose representatives deal with the conservation of flora and fauna specific to the territory. However, it has largely remained undeveloped, offering tourists an oasis of peace. If you’ve never been here, you should definitely consider this destination for your next vacation.
