Crete

Quick Facts: Who was Crete?

Subject:

Crete

Known for:

The largest and most populous island of Greece, known for its rich culture and history.

Verified Source:

2Day Chrono-Wiki & Primary Historical Archives

Origins & Early Life

Crete ( KREET) is the largest and most populous island of Greece, the 89th largest island in the world, and the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, after Sicily, Sardinia, Cyprus, and Corsica. Crete is located approximately 100 km (62 mi) south of the Peloponnese, and about 300 km (190 mi) southwest of Anatolia. Crete has an area of 8,450 km2 (3,260 mi2) and a coastline of 1,046 km (650 mi).

Career & Major Achievements

It bounds the southern border of the Aegean Sea, with the Sea of Crete (or North Cretan Sea) to the north and the Libyan Sea (or South Cretan Sea) to the south. Crete covers 260 km from west to east but is narrow from north to south, spanning three degrees of longitude but only half a degree of latitude. Crete and its surrounding islands and islets form the Region of Crete (Greek: Περιφέρεια Κρήτης), which is the southernmost of the 13 top-level administrative units of Greece, and the fifth most populous of Greece's regions.

Enduring Legacy & Impact

Its capital and largest city is Heraklion, located on the island's north shore. As of 2021, the region had a population of 624,408. The Dodecanese are located to the northeast of Crete, while the Cyclades are situated to the north, separated by the Sea of Crete.

Chronological Milestones & Life Events

1. 2021: 2021 Milestone — As of 2021, the region had a population of 624,408.

Historical Fact-Check Quiz: Crete

True or False: “True or false: Crete is the smallest island in the Mediterranean Sea.”

Answer (FALSE ❌): False. Crete is the fifth largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, ranking after Sicily, Sardinia, Cyprus, and Corsica.

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Frequently Asked Questions about Crete