Princess Anne ends Crete visit marking 85th Battle of Crete anniversary

Sunday, 24 May 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

Princess Anne concluded a three-day visit to Chania, Crete today, May 25, attending official commemoration ceremonies marking the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Crete. The battle took place in May 1941, when Allied forces including British, Australian, New Zealand, and Greek troops fought a major airborne German invasion across the island. Chania was at the center of the fighting, and the region holds several significant memorial sites including the Commonwealth War Cemetery at Souda Bay, one of the most visited historical landmarks in western Crete. Annual commemorations draw veterans' families, dignitaries, and visitors from Commonwealth countries each May. Tourists in the Chania area this week may encounter increased security presence and some road closures near official venues. The Souda Bay cemetery remains open to the public year-round and is free to visit.