Malia

Malia is a town and resort on the northern coast of the Greek island of Crete. It is located in the Heraklion regional unit along the Aegean Sea, to the east of the city of Heraklion. The town is known for its long sandy beach, hotels, and a vibrant nightlife scene that attracts tourists in the summer months. The surrounding area includes the archaeological site of the Minoan Palace of Malia, a major Bronze Age settlement. The palace complex provides insight into Minoan architecture and daily life and has yielded artifacts and architectural remains excavated since the early 20th century.

Historically, Malia developed from ancient Greek and later Roman settlements, and in modern times grew into a popular tourist destination. The local economy is centered on tourism, complemented by agriculture in the hinterland and coastal fishing. Beyond the place name, Malia is also a feminine given name in various cultures. Notable people with the given name include Malia Obama, the daughter of former U.S. president Barack Obama.