Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Crete is united with eastern Libya to form the Roman province of Creta et Cyrenaica, reorgan-
ising population centres and ushering in a new era of prosperity.
AD 63
Christianity emerges after St Paul visits Crete and leaves his disciple, Titus, to convert the is-
land. St Titus becomes Crete's first bishop.
250
The first Christian martyrs, the so-called Agii Deka (Ten Saints) are killed in the Cretan village of
the same name, as Roman officials begin major Christian persecutions.
324
The AD 250 invasion of Greece by the Goths signals the decline of the Pax Romana and in 324
the capital of the Roman Empire is moved to Byzantium (later renamed Constantinople). Chris-
tianity gains traction.
394
Christianity is declared the official religion. All pagan worship of Greek and Roman gods is out-
lawed. Christian theology supplants classical philosophy.
395
The Roman Empire splits and Crete is ruled by Byzantium. Crete becomes a self- governing
province; Gortyna is its administrative centre. Piracy decreases, trade flourishes; many
churches are built.
529
Athens' cultural influence is dealt a fatal blow when Emperor Justinian outlaws the teaching of
classical philosophy in favour of Christian theology, by now regarded as the ultimate form of in-
tellectual endeavour.
960
Byzantine General Nikiforos Fokas launches the 'Expedition to Crete, liberating the island.
Coastal defences are fortified, and Chandax becomes the capital. A powerful land-holding class
emerges.
1204
Marauding Frankish Crusaders sack Constantinople. Trading religious fervour for self-interest,
the Crusaders strike a blow that sets Constantinople on the road to a slow demise.
