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The town separates the two beaches, one sandy, the other pebbly. Usually one of the two is protected by the wind so there is always a chance to swim in a calm sea or enjoy superb windsurfing. The fortress of Selino, built by the Venetians which stood here on a hill called Kastela, was first built in 1279 and rebuilt in 1338; it gave its name to this south-western eparchy of Crete. When attacked in 1539 by Khair Eddin Barbarossa, Selino failed to do its job, and was demolished by the pillaging Turks. In later periods it was the principal harbour of the region. The ancient city of Kalamydi was located here. There are sea communications between Palaiochora and Ayia Roumeli, Chora Sfakion and the island of Gavdos.