On the famous beach of matala, Crete.

Matala is a natural harbour on the Bay of Messara, 71km south of Heraklion. The beach is 250m long and 45m wide.

http://www.cretanbeaches.com

By Trifonas

At the beginning of the settlement you see a wonderful sculpture on a tree.

By Trifonas

Half the beach is fringed by tamarisk trees, leading the eye on to impressive formations of sandstone rock cliffs with their famous caves sliding into the sea at an odd angle, creating one of the most unusual beachscapes on the island.

The beach. By Trifonas

It is certain that the caves were tombs of the Roman and Christian Periods. Μany of them have rooms, stairs, beds or windows, suggesting that they were prehistoricly also used as dwellings.

The caves. By Trifonas

Matala became famous when in 60s arrived here from all over the world to live in the famous caves. A trademark of hippies was the two fingers of victory, accompanied by the phrase "Peace Man". Matala became so popular in the hippies that attracted famous personalities such as Joni Mitchell (also has a song about Matala, Carey), Bob Dylan, Janis Joplin, Joan Baez and Cat Stevens. Then around there was nothing but a small fishing village.
In our days you won’t find hippies, the place of caves is archaeological site and you will find hotels, bars and restaurants.
If you visit them in the winter and sping you’ll see almost nobody.

Inside the settlement. By Trifonas