The Palace in Chania

In the historic neighborhood of Chalepa, right next to Eleftherios Venizelos' house, you’ll find "The Palace." Built around 1882 in the style of a villa, it is a quintessential example of a neoclassical mansion of the era, characterized by its simplicity and symmetry. According to the Municipality of Chania, the building was deemed the most suitable residence when the Autonomous Cretan State was established in 1898, and it became the home of High Commissioner Prince George. From that time, it has been affectionately known as "The Palace."

After Prince George’s departure in 1906, the mansion housed his successor, High Commissioner Alexandros Zaimis, who made significant modifications to both its interior and exterior. Later, it served as the residence of successive Governors of Crete.

From 1940 to 1957, the building functioned as a military hospital, and during the German Occupation, it was requisitioned and used as a headquarters by the occupying forces.

Photo: Wikipedia