First Byzantine Period

The first Byzantine period lasted from 395 AD until 824 AD. During this period Crete was a part of the Byzantine Empire, which had Constantinople as its capital. Christianity spread and established itself on the island. Magnificent churches, mostly basilicas, were built. In the area of the Municipality of Minoan Pediados ruins of the basilicas were found in the location of Prophet Elias at Arkalohori, where the ancient Arcadia used to be. Also at Ini and on the banks of the river Mintri near Tsoutsouros, where the Ancient Inatos has been discovered.