The Palace is located in Chalepa, right next to the house of Eleftherios Venizelos. It was built around 1882 in the villa type and is a classic example of a mansion of the era characterized by simplicity and symmetry. In 1898, with the declaration of the Autonomous Cretan State as the most suitable building, it was used as the residence of the High Commissioner, Prince George, which is why it has been known as “The Palace” ever since.
After the departure of Prince George in 1906, it was the residence of the next High Commissioner Alexandros Zaimis, who made many changes to both the exterior and interior of the building. Later, the General Governors of Crete also stayed there. From 1940 to 1957 it housed the military hospital, while during the Occupation it was requisitioned and used as a headquarters by the Germans.
