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The Island of Crete:Located almost equally distant from the continents of Europe, Asia, and Africa, Crete possesses a strategic location coveted by the powerful throughout time. The Mycenaeans, Romans, Arabs, Venetians, Turks, and Germans have occupied the island at some point during their glory years and have all left their mark. Thus, being a crossroads of cultures through the centuries Crete has developed its own uniquely rich culture. Crete is credited by scholars to be the cradle of Western Civilization and is even thought by some to be the lost Atlantis. Crete is where the concepts of religion, elected government, justice, athletics, poetry, art, architecture and others started. Mother Nature has done its best to endow this beautiful island with the most fragrant flowers and tasty fruits and vegetables. The whole island, which is smaller than the state of Rhode Island, is a natural botanical garden with more than 2500 plant species of which 10% are endemic to Crete. By comparison, the British Isles have only about 200 endemic plant species. The people of Crete have endured many tribulations only to emerge stronger in their resolve to be free, independent, and true to their convictions. This resiliency and persistency are hallmark traits that assure success. Thus, in many fields of human endeavor you find Cretans being among the very best. Watch as the sun sets over the ruins of Phaestos and Knossos where the concepts of our society originated. Swim the clear beaches embracing Crete. Climb the pristine mountains and smell the aroma of over 2500 plant species many o which cannot be found at any other place on Earth. See where Theotokopoulos (El Greco) learned to paint masterpieces. Talk with people that have Kazantzakis' wit. Hear poetry that rivals Elytis'. Marvel at plays that rival those of Shakespeare. Enjoy the... renowned Cretan cuisine, a cornucopia of fresh fruits, vegetables, seafood, and olive oil .
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