Malia is a very lively resort. At the same time it has one of Crete’s most evocative and least visited Minoan sites, with the remains of a palace. It is also one of the best coastal spots on Crete for seeing migrating birds in the spring and fall.

The main area to see is the former palace, which was built in 1900 BC, destroyed in 1700 BC, rebuilt, and then destroyed again in about 1450 BC in the cataclysmic annihilation of the Minoan civilization on Crete. The central courtyard is a focal pint from which to try to understand the sumptuous buildings that would have surrounded you.

The remains of storage areas and pits, as well as a huge administration block, indicate that the palace was as well populated and well stocked with provisions as any large modern town.