souda bay war cemetery

Landroid90

I visited the cemetery during a quiet spell on a work trip. The setting is amazing, the graves so respectfully tended to, I even found a memorial to some soldiers from my Grandfathers regiment from a previous campaign at the turn of the century. The visitors book makes lovely reading, and simple things in the cemetery, beautifully tended gardens and pathways made it all the more special.One of the memorials really got to me which was the memorial to 6 bomber crew who were buried shoulder to shoulder, as they all died at a finite moment in time, the war graves commission has buried them with the headstones touching which I've never seen anywhere in the world before at any of the war cemeteries or memorials that I have visited all over Europe.If I can, I will upload a couple of pics from my phone.Like my title says, WELL WORTH A VISIT, whether you are an ex military like me or just to pay your respects.

266JosephG

In a quiet area and in view of the sea, this well kept British war cemetery is the resting place for the 1527 young soldiers (including 5 Canadians) that gave up their lives in the defence of Crete against the German invasion in 1941.This truly worth a visit.

patriciaharris

We went to find a war grave belonging to my mums younger brother who never returned home,found it comforting,well looked after,all facing the sea waiting to be rescued,he is there with hundreds of his mates,God bless you Uncle Bernard RIP

robcat101

As all other reviews, lovely place to visit. Follow the road that goes to the airport.. Beautifully maintained.

terrynev

Tucked away and off the beaten track, a visit is a must. Like all War Cemeteries, it is beautifully maintained but this one stands out because of the must beautiful setting. It lies right next to the sea and one can only imagine what these brave heros went through in such a picturesque place.Extremely moving experience.

angeline867

Set in a beautiful tranquil bay in the port of Souda is the Allied war cemetery . In this most poignant place you can pay respect to the fallen Allied soldiers who lost their lives in the War. It is kept immaculate and is a real history lesson. So many young men who died so many miles from their homeland, this bay is a fitting place of rest as it is a natural place of beauty. Souda remains a navel port and you can see the ships setting sail from here, and in the little town you will find refreshments. We felt humbled and we're pleased to have spent time here during our holiday

NeilPick

It really isn't a case of like and dislike: war graves ought not to exist, but how else does one commemorate the many young lives lost in the defence of Crete in 1941 and subsequently during the occupation? Souda Bay is a moving tribute as well as the lasting resting place of over 1500 such young men, mainly of British, Australian and New Zealand extraction. That so many lost their lives in just one, small (and often-overlooked) part of a wider conflict highlights the futility of war, and is a lesson to the future. The beauty and peace of the site makes it possible to reflect.........

FionaG350

This is situated in a peaceful area of Crete with a view of the sea. It is excellently well maintained. For anyone with personal interest there is a directory available detailing all those buried there. Any even for those with no relatives buried there it is worth a visit to remember all those who gave their lives for others.

M0rtenHagen

It's easy to forget the tragic history of Crete during the WW II without visits to the cemeteries her and in Malemne. Both worth a visit. The old man, in front of the gate, taking care of 9 homeless dogs and 23 cats also deserves a euro or two.

586JaneM

A tribute to the hundreds of soldiers that lost there life in the war during the German occupation. Clean and extremely well tended. All headstones face the sea where the soldiers were evacuated from - those that made it.

McGMCKTAB

You cannot fail to be moved by the setting, by the evident dedication of the grounds staff but ultimately by the sacrifice made by so many young men.Pay a visit, pay your respect and ponder why the madness of war continues.

JohnBuckley2595

Having visited Crete on several occasions I have never managed a visit to the cemetery until this year. As a serving soldier I was humbled to see this. Donated by the island this piece of land is ideally situated to pay your respects.I was honoured to search the headstones and find a fellow Royal Engineer who died during the Battle of Crete. It's a must visit whilst on the Island.

143ruthk

It was a lovely visit. Seeing how well kept the graves are and being able to look through the book of names and addresses of those laid to rest.

Ospreycelt

Very well kept cemetery on a stunning piece of land over looking the bay. Worth the 2.5 hr drive from Gouves to visit. Ignore the stupid comment stating it glorifies war. It doesn't and she knows nothing.

240SteveG

Whilst this may not be to everyone's taste if you are interested in war history it is worth a visit. The guide book gives you a good briefing about what happened during the invasion of Crete.We enjoyed the trip there and although this is the only thing there to see, if you have a hire car the journey is good through the little villages, if you do not take the motorway.Would recommend for history buffs.