“Saint Nicholas protects sailors.” That’s the meaning behind Agios Nikolaos its name.
Agios Nikolaos is a coastal town. It sits on the Greek island of Crete. You will find it east of Heraklion. It is north of Ierapetra. Also, it is west of Sitia.
Agios Nikolaos is the capital of Lasithi. It stands partially on the ruins of Lato pros Kamara. This town has a rich history. It provides access to many small villages and farms of Lassithi.
Agios Nikolaos was settled in the late Bronze Age. Dorian occupants of Lato settled it. Security was less of a concern then. Access to the harbor became more important.
Agios Nikolaos is a common name in Greece. Saint Nicholas is the patron saint. He protects sailors and all of Greece.
This area attracts tourists. Lake Voulismeni is a small lagoon. There are also beaches in the town. The tiny island of Agioi Pantes is nearby. You can also visit the archaeological museum. The local flora exhibition “Iris” is worth seeing. Also, there are numerous fairs.
Most tourists come from Western Europe. Greek tourism peaks in mid-August. Many Russian vacationers visit East Crete. The lagoon has a small park. It has a trail and traditional fishing boats. You can see ducks and pigeons. There is an amphitheater and many cafés.
Agios Nikolaos gained international fame in the 1960s. Famous cinema directors discovered it. Jules Dassin and Walt Disney visited. BBC producers also came. This started rapid tourist development. Films like “He Who Must Die” were filmed here. Also, “The Moon-Spinners” was shot here. The TV series “The Lotus Eaters” was also filmed in Agios Nikolaos.
You can reach Agios Nikolaos through Heraklion International Airport. There are daily ferry services in Heraklion. Sitia airport is another option. You can board a domestic or charter flight. The town also has a harbor.
While in Agios Nikolaos, visit Lake Voulismeni. Legend says goddesses Athena and Artemis bathed here. Locals once thought it was bottomless. They believed it was a portal to evil spirits. In 1853, its depth was found to be 64 meters.
Also see the Horn of Almathea near Kitroplateia Beach. It symbolizes Zeus’s myth. Zeus broke Almathea’s horn. He blessed it with abundance.
Another sculpture is The Abduction of Europa. Zeus transformed into a white bull. He carried Europa to Crete.
Agios Nikolaos blends history and natural beauty. It offers ancient landmarks and beaches. The town also has a lively nightlife.