Archanes Stages Earthquake Preparedness Drill on May 21

Wednesday, 20 May 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

The municipality of Archanes-Asterousia, in the Heraklion regional unit of central Crete, is conducting a full-scale earthquake preparedness drill on Thursday, May 21. The exercise simulates a major seismic event and includes an evacuation scenario involving both local emergency services and the general public. Archanes is a historic hilltop town located approximately 16 kilometers south of Heraklion, popular with visitors for its Venetian architecture and proximity to the Minoan site of Fourni. Tourists in or around Archanes on Thursday may encounter temporary road closures, emergency vehicle activity, and public address announcements as part of the exercise. There is no actual seismic threat. Visitors are advised to remain calm if they observe emergency response activity, follow any instructions from local officials, and be aware that access to parts of the town center may be briefly restricted during the drill.