In ancient times Hersonisos was an autonomous thriving city and port of ancient Lyttos. It minted its own coins and had a renowned temple dedicated to Brytomartis, a Minoan deity, who was later identified with Artemis.

By the seafront you will find a reconstructed Roman fountain with fishing scenes. West of this fountain are the remnants of the Roman harbour and the submerged remains of a Roman quay. West of the town, overlooking the harbour you will see the ruins of a three-aisled Early Christian Basilica, which dates from the 5th century AD and believed to be the seat of one of Crete';s first bishops.