The Ministry of Culture has granted approval for the filming, aerial photography, and other visual documentation of Crete's archaeological sites as part of the ongoing digital transformation of the official tourism portal, Visit Greece. These high-quality materials will be used exclusively to enhance digital applications that promote Greece’s rich heritage, with no commercial distribution.
Expanding Digital Content Across Crete
The initiative focuses on the Ephorates of Antiquities in the regions of Heraklion, Lassithi, Rethymno, and Chania, as well as the Ephorate of Paleoanthropology and Speleology of Crete. Over 100 archaeological sites will be captured in a variety of formats, including traditional photography, aerial drone shots, 360° panoramic views, and short thematic videos.
These digital assets will support the Greek National Tourism Organization (GNTO) in its efforts to enhance the country’s online presence, while ensuring that no materials are distributed to third parties or used for commercial purposes.
Featured Sites by Ephorate of Antiquities
Ephorate of Antiquities of Rethymno
- Eleftherna Archaeological Site
- Archaeological Museum
- Arkadi Monastery and Monastery Museum
- Fortezza Fortress
- Chromonastiri, Rethymno Prefecture
Ephorate of Antiquities of Chania
- Ancient Kydonia
- Archaeological Museum of Chania
- Archaeological Site of Aptera/Kastro
- Gouverneto Monastery
- Agia Triada of Tzagaroli
- Agios Ioannis Erimitis
- Gramvousa Castle
- Venetian Wards
- Chania Lighthouse
Ephorate of Antiquities of Lassithi
- Spinalonga Fortified Islet
- Archaeological Museum of Agios Nikolaos
- Archaeological Site of Lato
- Panagia Kera
- Ancient Olous
- Kale Fortress of Ierapetra
- Ancient Itanos
- Toplou Monastery and Museum
- Archaeological Site of Zakros
- Fortress of Kazarmas, Sitia
- Archaeological Site of Chamezio
- Archaeological Site of Petras
- Monastery of Kapsa
Ephorate of Antiquities of Heraklion
- Knossos and Phaistos Palace Complexes
- Archaeological Site of Gortyna
- Museum of Sacred Icons and Relics
- Venetian Fortress of Koule
- Monasteries of Hodigitria and Agarathos
- Church of Agios Matthew
- Kastello of Katalagario
Ephorate of Paleoanthropology and Speleology
- Melidoni Caves
- Idaion Andron
- Milatos Cave (restricted access due to winter conditions and works)
Terms and Restrictions
Drone filming will take place exclusively in fenced areas, during off-peak hours, and outside regular operating hours, in compliance with the Hellenic Civil Aviation Authority regulations for unmanned aircraft.
Certain monuments, like the Palace of Malia, will remain off-limits for filming due to ongoing excavations and infrastructure work. In areas such as Knossos, Phaistos, Koule Fortress, and the Museum of Sacred Icons, filming will only occur in public-access areas.
For safety reasons, filming at Kastello Katalagari will be restricted to outdoor spaces, and special arrangements will be made for filming at Fortezza Fortress, Arkadi Monastery, and Chromonastirion Military Museum.
This project is a part of the broader effort to digitally preserve Crete’s archaeological legacy and make these wonders more accessible to a global audience. Through these innovative initiatives, Visit Greece continues to enhance its digital presence and highlight Greece's timeless cultural heritage.
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