Crete could not be missing from the frame of the great Hollywood movies that made Greece stand out and become even more well-known worldwide for its beauty. With its many landscapes, endless coastline, authentic people, and mountain villages, it won the admiration and interest of Greek and foreign producers, who chose the island as the setting for their films. And how could Zorba, the hero of Nikos Kazantzakis, be filmed anywhere other than in Crete, the homeland of this great writer and poet? Among the areas shown in the 1963 film was the area and the beach of Stavros. Notably, 5 of the 16 weeks of filming took place there.
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Zorba the Greek: The case of the film Alexis Zorbas
The film Alexis Zorbas, which won three Academy Awards, is a 1964 Greek-British production directed by Michael Cacoyannis and starring Anthony Quinn, Alan Bates, Irene Pappas, Sotiris Moustakas, Giorgos Fountas, and George Vogiatzis. A film based on Nikos Kazantzakis’ book “Life and the State of Alexis Zorba,” shot in Crete, enchanted audiences and critics alike. The film adaptation of Kazantzakis’ book essentially describes the acquaintance and subsequent collaboration of an English writer with the mine worker in Crete, Zorba, played by Anthony Quinn. In fact, it is a presentation of how everyone lived and perceived their lives until then, and how Zorba, a simple, middle-aged worker, managed to completely change the author’s life by teaching him how to enjoy the small everyday joys of life. Apart from the wonderful locations in Crete and the unique performances of the actors, the film was also distinguished by its soundtrack, which was, of course, a creation of Mikis Theodorakis. It is the film that made syrtaki known worldwide.
Crete Stavros Beach: where the legendary movie Zorbas was shot
As we said, a large portion of the filming was dedicated to the area around Stavros in Akrotiri, Chania, Crete. Stavros Beach was the backdrop for many of the scenes, and today she can be proud of the Oscars to her credit. Stavros Beach is located about 15 km from Chania. Today, it reminds one of nothing so much as the deserted beach of Stavros in the film Zorba. The beauty, however, remains the same.
A rocky mass that lies there intact, however, remains to remind us of some scenes from the film. The shallow turquoise waters of Stavros beach will enchant you no matter what type of traveler you are. The beach is much preferred by families. In fact, these are two perfectly organized beaches where you will find everything you need to stay until the evening. If you are one of the most adventurous and like beautiful views, then you have to climb the rock and find the cave with the breathtaking view. 
What is certain is that it will be an unforgettable island.
Frequently Asked Questions
Stavros beach is located in Akrotiri, Chania, Crete, approximately 15 km from the city of Chania. It is easily accessible and situated in one of the most beautiful areas of the island.
Yes, Stavros beach was a major filming location for the legendary 1963 film Alexis Zorbas. The beach and surrounding area were the backdrop for many scenes, with 5 of the 16 weeks of filming taking place there.
Today, a distinctive rocky mass remains intact at Stavros beach, serving as a reminder of scenes from the Alexis Zorbas film. The turquoise waters and natural landscape are much the same as they appeared in the 1963 movie.
Yes, Stavros beach is highly preferred by families and features two perfectly organized beaches with all necessary facilities. Visitors can enjoy amenities throughout the day and into the evening, making it ideal for families of all types.
Beyond swimming in the shallow turquoise waters, visitors can climb the rocks at Stavros beach to discover a cave with breathtaking views. The beach is also an ideal base for exploring nearby attractions, including the famous gorges of Crete that should be on any visitor's itinerary.
