A Description of Crete in the 17th Century: Based on the Manuscript of the Municipal Library of Chania

Among the various Descriptions of Crete that gained circulation during the final phase of Venetian rule on the island, the manuscript preserved in the Municipal Library of Chania stands out. Written in 1621 by an unknown author, this manuscript is the focus of the forthcoming edition, which includes a detailed introduction addressing the conditions in Crete during the early seventeenth century. The introduction further discusses the context that encouraged the composition of such Descriptions of Crete, presents the newly identified manuscript, and highlights its significance for historical research. The edition will provide the source text alongside its translation, followed by comprehensive commentary, analysis of the accompanying illustrations, and detailed indexes.