Gournia, is one of the most noteworthy archaeological sites in Crete and the best preserved of the Minoan settlements. It is located 19 km. southeast of Agios Nicholaos and 15 km. north of Ierapetra and appears to date from 1550- 1450 B.C. The ruins of the town include small houses and a small palace on top of a hill; even the narrow streets and connecting stairways have survived amidst the foundations of the houses.