The Greek Islands: How Were They Named?

Crete, the largest Greek island, is believed to have been named after the mythical figure ‘Kretheus’ or from the ancient word “Kritias,” meaning a place of strong people.

Another theory suggests its name stems from the Minoan civilization’s original name for the island. As the cradle of the Minoan civilization, Crete played a pivotal role in Greek mythology, serving as the birthplace of Zeus and home to the labyrinth of the Minotaur.