Lissos (Greece)

The ancient city of Lissos was at the height of its glory in the 3rd century BC. In those days, Lissos was famous for its hot springs , which were believed to have therapeutic virtues. One of Lissos' temples, the Temple of Asklepios, was actually built close to one of these springs, and this explains its name, which is taken from that of the Greek god of medecine, Asclepius (Esculapius to the Romans).

Excavations carried out at Lissos have uncovered some beautiful ancient ruins: a theatre, a water reservoir, a temple, and especially statues, including that of Asklepios. Though these statues have since been transferred to the archaeological museum in Chania, you can still see one of the bases of the marble altar on which the statue of Asklepios stood in Lissos and where offerings to the gods were placed.

I was impressed by the wonderful mosaic floor at the Temple of Asklepios, which I spent some time admiring. It features gorgeous geometric designs and depictions of birds. Additionally, there are ruins of barrel-vaulted tombs visible on the site's western slope.