Malia and Malia - a modern resort town, located 34 kilometers east of Heraklion. In addition to the tourist popularity of this area is of great historical importance, as in ancient times, this territory belonged to the Minoan state.

Malia is one of the oldest inhabited places not only in Crete but also in Greece. In ancient times on the site of modern Malia was a prosperous Minoan settlement. The original name of this ancient city set and failed. In the course of archaeological excavations, which began in 1915 under the leadership of the Greek archaeologist Joseph Hadzidakisa was discovered the ancient palace complex.

A huge two-story complex of buildings historians put on a par with such examples as the Minoan palaces of Knossos and Phaistos, although Mali palace was less flashy in terms of finishing. The palace, which today remain only ruins, was built around 1700 BC on the foundations of an ancient building (1900 BC). The new palace was destroyed by the powerful volcanic eruption of Santorini in about the mid-16th century BC This natural disaster recognized by scientists the most global in the history of the earth, and marked the beginning of the death of the powerful Minoan civilization.

A unique example of Minoan jewelery art is considered to be found in Malia suspension "Golden Bee", which is currently stored in the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.

Today, Malia - a very popular resort, especially among young people. There is a huge selection of comfortable hotels, most of which are located close to the beach. Excellent restaurants, numerous bars and nightclubs open until the morning, as if specially designed for active and noisy holiday. Gorgeous sandy beaches of Malia are among the best in the region.