Lasithi prefecture is located in the eastern part of Crete, a peaceful district with hospitable habitants, who are always willing to accommodate the visitors. The mountains, the endless beaches and the two remarkable islands, north and south of the district, compose the Mediterranean scenery on the eastern end of the island. Even though, it's one of the "peaceful" districts of the island, the area has become one of the most well-known destinations for the tourists due to the well-organized coastal areas with deluxe hotels.
The gorgeous beaches have been formed by the three seas that surround the district, the Libyan, the Carpathian and the Cretan Sea, while, and in the steep mountains of the up-country, the gorges and the caves create a unique spectacle.
In Lasithi, like the rest of Crete, the Minoan civilization that evolved around 2000 BC was a major influence to the area. The remains of this great civilization are spread in Lasithi and the whole island. The most important sites are Zakros Palace and Psira Islet, where one of the most significant Minoan settlements in Crete was found. In its several centuries of history, Crete was conquered by the Byzantines, then the Venetians and the Turks. All the above conquerors left their signature on the island in general as well as in the area, which is presented here, Lasithi.
Agios Nikolaos is the capital of the district. Moreover, other significant towns are Ierapetra and Sitia, while Elounda is particularly known for its cosmopolitan style. Mount Dikti with the plateau of Lasithi is located to the west of the district. Plateau Lasithi is one of the largest plateaus on the island with many small traditional villages that welcome the visitor. Among them, the visitor can find many monasteries and chapels.
The habitants are mostly involved in agriculture, green fallow, olive groves and vineyards. You will be pleased to find yourself either in the distant traditional villages of the up-country or the coastal areas.