German War Cemetery Maleme
A solemn memorial honoring German soldiers lost in the Battle of Crete, offering historical context and poignant views of the Maleme Airfield.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid the midday heat.
German War Cemetery Maleme
Best Time
Avoid the midday heat.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A solemn memorial honoring German soldiers lost in the Battle of Crete, offering historical context and poignant views of the Maleme Airfield.
"An immaculately kept German War Cemetery with views over the landing zones and Maleme Airfield."
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ground, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least an hour to explore the visitor center and cemetery thoughtfully. :clock1:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Cemetery Grounds
Maleme, Crete
Rows of uniform graves, a poignant reminder of the young lives lost during the Battle of Crete.
Visitor Center & Displays
Maleme, Crete
Learn about the intense air landings and the battle's impact through informative panels.
Views of Landing Zones
Overlooking Maleme Airfield
Gaze upon the historic landing zones, connecting the past with the present landscape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Visitation
Visitor Center Insights
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ground, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least an hour to explore the visitor center and cemetery thoughtfully. :clock1:
German War Cemetery, Maleme, Crete
Consider a Tour
Joining a tour can provide deeper historical context and insights. :bus:
Bring Water
Especially in summer, stay hydrated as it can get very hot. :droplet:
German paratroopers’ memorial, Chania, Crete. The black and white photo of the memorial, built in 1943, was on display at the German Military Cemetery in Maleme. The second photo is of the memorial in 2021. More pics and information at link on photos below
Tips
from all over the internet
Wear Comfortable Shoes
You'll be walking on uneven ground, so sturdy footwear is a must. :athletic_shoe:
Allow Ample Time
Give yourself at least an hour to explore the visitor center and cemetery thoughtfully. :clock1:
Consider a Tour
Joining a tour can provide deeper historical context and insights. :bus:
Bring Water
Especially in summer, stay hydrated as it can get very hot. :droplet:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the German War Cemetery Maleme for its immaculate upkeep and the poignant atmosphere of remembrance. The informative visitor center, detailing the intense air landings of the Battle of Crete, is a significant draw. While the emotional weight of so many young lives lost is palpable, the site is viewed as a crucial historical landmark offering valuable insights into the conflict.
"If you are interested in history they do have some basic information about the airlandings and the battle for Crete 1941. You can see the severe losses they suffered on the day of the landings by reading the death dates on the grave Stones (may 20th 1941)."
P S
"An emaculately kept German War Cemetery, with views over the landing zones and Maleme Airfield.
A short but hot walk up to. Lots of information panels in the visitor centre which is run by volunteers."
Duncan Connell
"Very well set out with lots of Information. None of the issues were avoided. The number of graves from this small area was impressive. A very well designed and maintained memorial.
More translations would assist non-German speaking visitors."
Richard Kay
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The German War Cemetery Maleme is located near Maleme, west of Chania. You can reach it by car, taxi, or local bus. The drive from Chania town typically takes about 30-40 minutes. Buses from Chania to Kissamos often stop near Maleme, but confirm the exact stop with the driver. :bus: :car:
Yes, there is usually ample parking available at the German War Cemetery Maleme, making it convenient for visitors arriving by car. :parking:
The cemetery is a short walk from the main coastal road (E75). Follow the signs for the German War Cemetery. :walking:
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, entry to the German War Cemetery Maleme is free. It is a place of remembrance and is open to all visitors. :ticket:
The cemetery grounds are generally accessible during daylight hours. The visitor center may have specific operating times, often from morning to late afternoon. It's advisable to check locally for the most current hours. :clock1:
No advance booking is required as there is no admission fee. You can visit at your leisure during opening hours. :calendar:
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
You'll find thousands of uniform graves of German soldiers who died during the Battle of Crete, an informative visitor center with displays on the air landings, and views of the historic Maleme Airfield and landing zones. :camerawithflash: :world_map:
The visitor center is generally accessible, but it's always a good idea to inquire about specific accessibility features if needed. The cemetery grounds themselves may have some uneven terrain. :wheelchair:
While there isn't a formal daily tour schedule, some local tour operators include the German War Cemetery Maleme in their Battle of Crete itineraries. You might also find volunteers at the visitor center who can offer insights. :microphone:
It commemorates the German paratroopers and soldiers who perished during the invasion of Crete in May 1941, a pivotal and brutal battle of World War II. The sheer number of young lives lost is a stark reminder of the conflict's cost. :military_medal:
Yes, photography is generally permitted at the German War Cemetery Maleme. However, visitors are asked to be respectful of the solemn nature of the site. :camerawithflash:
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the nearby village of Maleme has several tavernas and restaurants offering local Cretan cuisine. You can find options for a meal after your visit. :knifeforkplate:
While there are no strict prohibitions, it's best to consume food and drinks away from the graves and visitor center out of respect for the memorial. :water_buffalo:
📸 📸 Photography
Early morning or late afternoon often provide the best light for photography, creating a more atmospheric and respectful mood. Avoid midday sun for softer shadows. :sunrise: :city_sunset:
You can capture the rows of graves, the visitor center displays, and the panoramic views of the surrounding landscape and airfield. Focus on respectful compositions. :camerawithflash:
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during cooler parts of the day to make the experience more comfortable for younger visitors. Bring water and snacks to be consumed away from the memorial areas. The open grounds can be a place for children to walk and observe, but emphasize the need for respectful behavior. The views of the airfield can also be a point of interest, connecting the historical events to the landscape.
🌍 History Enthusiasts
Beyond the visitor center, the cemetery itself is a historical artifact. The sheer number of graves, many from a single day, speaks volumes about the battle's ferocity. Take time to read the information panels and consider the human stories behind the names. For those interested in military history, this site provides a profound and tangible connection to a pivotal World War II campaign.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Battle of Crete and the Maleme Airfield
The losses on both sides were staggering, and the German War Cemetery Maleme specifically honors the German soldiers who perished during this campaign. Reading the death dates on the gravestones, predominantly May 20th, 1941, underscores the concentrated ferocity of the initial assault. The visitor center provides detailed information about the air landings, the battle's progression, and the significant casualties suffered by the German forces in securing this vital objective. It's a powerful reminder of the human cost of war, even for the victorious side.
Visiting the cemetery offers a unique perspective on the battle, moving beyond the Allied narrative to understand the sacrifices made by all involved. The well-maintained grounds and informative displays contribute to a deeply moving and educational experience, encouraging reflection on the events of 1941 and their lasting impact.
Visiting the Cemetery: A Visitor's Perspective
Many reviewers highlight the views over the landing zones and Maleme Airfield as a particularly poignant aspect of the visit. This allows for a direct connection between the historical accounts and the physical landscape. While the information panels are praised, some visitors suggest that more translations would be beneficial for non-German speaking guests, enhancing accessibility and understanding for a wider audience.
Despite the sadness inherent in such a place, the overall sentiment is one of respect and appreciation for the memorial's design and maintenance. It's seen as an essential stop for anyone interested in the history of the Battle of Crete, offering a balanced and moving perspective on a significant World War II event.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit