Due to its favorable location between the coasts of Asia Minor, Cyprus, Egypt and Syria, Crete, also known by its Venetian name Candia, has a long history as a center of maritime trade. Between 1600 and 1400 BC. Due to this location, the Cretans achieved a high level of civilization, thanks to their rule, which was based on sea power.

The area of ​​Crete is more than 8,300 square kilometers. Crete is located in the south of the Aegean Sea and forms the border with the Libyan Sea. The island is 260 kilometers long and its width varies from 12 kilometers (near Ierapetra) to 70 kilometers (between Heraklion and Lithinon).

Crete's main sources of income are agriculture and tourism. Olive cultivation is important in Crete and good extra virgin olive oil is produced. Other products include oranges, grapes, greenhouse vegetables, honey, cheese and herbs. Finally, large numbers of goats and sheep are kept in Crete, providing goat's milk and feta. Crete is popular with tourists due to the beauty and diversity of the island. About 5 million people visit the island every year. It is especially busy in the summer. Many tourist accommodations and resorts have been built. Per capita income is approximately equal to the Greek average while unemployment, which stands at 4%, is half of the average.