Princess Anne Marks Battle of Crete Anniversary in Chania

Wednesday, 6 May 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Princess Anne of the United Kingdom will make an official visit to Chania on Saturday 23 and Sunday 24 May 2026 to attend commemorative events marking the anniversary of the Battle of Crete. The Battle of Crete (May 1941) was a major World War II engagement fought across the island, and annual memorial ceremonies in Chania draw international delegations, veterans' descendants, and visitors each year. Events typically include wreath-laying ceremonies at war cemeteries and official gatherings in the city centre. Tourists in Chania that weekend can expect increased security presence and possible road closures around official venues. The Souda Bay Commonwealth War Graves Cemetery, located just outside Chania, is open to the public and worth visiting for those interested in the history surrounding these commemorations.