OlousAncient Crete Olous is an ancient ruin of a town located in the bay of Elounda in north-eastern Crete in Greece. This intriguing site can be reached by snorkelling or diving from the narrow strip of land that joins the mainland and Kolokytha peninsula, with access just south of Elounda.  Some of the mosaic floors can be seen on the land in the thin isthmus between Elounda and Kolokytha. Depicting birds and fish, these mosaics are all that remain of two chapels associated with the town. Coins excavated from the site show Zeus, an eagle, a dolphin or a star.
Vritomartis or Britomartis has many names. She is the beautiful mermaid spirit or Goddess, or the real mermaid, depending where your beliefs take you... In Minoan seals, coins and rings she is shown with a demonic nature, carrying the Cretan double-headed axe and followed by wild animals. What we do know is that she was found on coins discovered in the drowned city, and can be visited by snorkelling, much like a mermaid, in this beautiful bay. From Elounda Crete harbour a boat cruise leaves every day in summer, to see the nearby island Spinalonga, the beautiful beaches of Kolokytha and these ruins. These trips are run by a cooperative of local boat captains. This site can be reached by local bus from Agios Nikolaos. From that town, take the bus to Elounda, several leave each day and the journey is around 11 kms. Also nearby is the beautiful Elounda Beach. See our page about hotels in Elounda, which includes information about the Akti Olous Hotel, just a stone's throw from the sunken city.
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