Souda Bay Commonwealth Cemetery is a Second World War burial ground in Souda, on the road between the port and Chania airport. More than 1,500 Commonwealth servicemen who died during the Battle of Crete and the resistance that followed are buried here. Neat rows of headstones include graves marked “Unknown Soldier, Known but to God”; the grounds look out towards Souda Bay. Come to pay your respects and read the inscriptions at a quiet pace. The cemetery is wheelchair accessible and has free parking.
A burial ground from the Battle of Crete
Souda Bay Commonwealth Cemetery is on the road between Souda port and Chania airport. It is the resting place of more than 1,500 Commonwealth servicemen who died in the Battle of Crete in May 1941 and in the resistance that continued during the Second World War.
The servicemen came from Britain, Australia, New Zealand, Canada, South Africa and India. Their graves are arranged in rows across the cemetery, with the bay close by. The grounds are carefully maintained, giving the site a quiet setting for remembrance.
Reading the headstones
Take time to read the inscriptions as you move through the rows. Some graves are marked “Unknown Soldier, Known but to God,” a reminder that not every serviceman could be identified. The headstones also record the ages of those buried here; many were young.
If you would like to focus your visit on one person, look up Ted d’Auvergne before you arrive. His grave is here, and learning his story can add context to the visit.
Planning a respectful visit
The cemetery is a place of remembrance. Move quietly through the grounds and give other visitors space to reflect. An early visit can be quieter, before tour buses arrive.
There is free parking, and both the entrance and parking area are wheelchair accessible. The Commonwealth War Graves Commission website has further information about the cemetery.
Perguntas frequentes
Where is Souda Bay Commonwealth Cemetery?
It is in Souda, on the road between Souda port and Chania airport.
Who is buried at Souda Bay Commonwealth Cemetery?
More than 1,500 Commonwealth servicemen who died during the Battle of Crete and the resistance that followed are buried here.
Is parking available at the cemetery?
Yes. There is free parking, and the parking area and entrance are wheelchair accessible.
When is a good time to visit?
Early morning can be quieter, before tour buses arrive.
