On Sunday, 24 May 2026, the Maritime Museum of Crete had the great pleasure and distinct honour of welcoming Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal, Princess Anne, to its premises. She was accompanied by her husband, Vice Admiral Sir Timothy Laurence, His Majesty’s Ambassador to the Hellenic Republic, Mr Matthew Lodge, as well as members of the British diplomatic mission and her official entourage.
The visit took place within the framework of the commemorative events marking the 85th anniversary of the Battle of Crete, a historic event that continues to unite Crete with the United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand, and the other Allied nations that participated in the defence of the island during the Second World War.
Upon her arrival at the Firka Fortress, home of the Maritime Museum of Crete, Her Royal Highness was guided through the Museum’s permanent and temporary exhibitions, with particular emphasis placed on the exhibits relating to the Battle of Crete, the naval dimension of the military operations, and the contribution of the Allied Forces to the struggle for freedom.
Her Royal Highness showed considerable interest in the exhibits and the historical documentation presented throughout the Museum and was thoroughly informed about the Museum’s mission, activities, and long-standing contribution to the preservation and promotion of the maritime history and cultural heritage of Crete and Greece.
As part of the visit, a commemorative plaque was presented to Her Royal Highness. Princess Anne also signed the Museum’s Visitors’ Book, leaving a personal message in which she expressed her appreciation for the work and mission of the Institution.
The presence of Her Royal Highness Princess Anne at the Maritime Museum of Crete constitutes a significant recognition of the Museum’s work and further strengthens the historical bonds of friendship and cooperation that connect Crete and Greece with the United Kingdom through the shared memory and enduring legacy of the Battle of Crete.
