Itanos

Itanos was an ancient city on the northeastern tip of the island of Crete.

The origins of settlement can be traced back to prehistoric times. However, Itanos's heyday as a wealthy port city was during the Doric period. In the 3rd and 2nd centuries BC, Itanos was allied with Egypt. From 140 BC, Itanos was allied with Hierapytna (Ierapetra) and, together with this city, ruled all of eastern Crete. It became part of the Roman province of Crete.

In 795, Itanos was destroyed by an earthquake and subsequently rebuilt. In the 15th century, the city fell into decline after its inhabitants were expelled by pirates.
Archaeological excavations have uncovered the remains of a Byzantine basilica, seen here. The basilica had a nave and two aisles separated by columns. One of the sculpted stones within the ruins.