If you arrived at the capital of Crete, Greece’s largest island, expecting another picturesque coastal town, you are wrong. Heraklion or Iraklion, has a rugged cityscape with a mismatch of ancient structures and modern skyscrapers. Somehow this contrasting image forms a charm of its own.
As you navigate the city, these historical monuments and ruins would jump on you amidst the sea of modernity and will compel you to stop and admire.
Old Town
Heraklion’s Old Town is defined by scattered Venetian and Turkish fountains, parts of the Venetian wall, museums and other historical monuments. It is also a great place for shopping authentic Cretan products and the Central Market is where you must head to.
In the heart of Old Town, stands the Loggia, a 17th century Venetian Town Hall. This was where the nobility and administrators would gather to discuss political matters. Around the Loggia, you will see several streets which are lined with cafes, restaurants and shops. A little walk away from the Loggia is the Morosini Fountain, located in Lion’s Square.
Cathedral of St. Minas, the patron saint of Heraklion has an impressive interior with beautiful frescoes and a stunning chandelier. Apart from this you will also come across St. Catherine of Sinai, Agios Titos Church and St. Mark’s Basilica.
Fortifications
Heraklion was occupied by several foreign forces. After the end of the Minoan period, it was occupied by the Arabs and then taken over by the Byzantine empire. It was then bought by the Republic of Venice. Most of the historical ruins that you see today were fortifications constructed by the Venetians during the 15th and 16th centuries.
Koules Fortress is an imposing structure that stands guard over the Venetian Harbour. Its thick walls have stood the test of time and was also why the Ottomans had to wait at the gates for 21 long years before the city fell. (Wow!) Inside the massive gates you will now find several historical items like cannons and statues on display.
The first city walls of Heraklion were put up during the Byzantine era. The Venetians reconstructed these walls, making them longer and stronger. The walls were more than four kilometres long with four massive gates and seven bastions, creating a powerful defense. Today only two gates, the ‘New Gate’ and the ‘Chanioporta’ and only one bastion, ‘Martinengo’ are still standing.
Museums
Heraklion Archaeological Museum is one of the most important museums in Greece. On its display, you can see the rich and long Minoan history of Crete with artifacts from archaeological sites like Knossos, Tylissos and Agia Triada. After this, your ideal next stop must be the Historical Museum of Crete which picks up the history of what happened after the Minoans. It displays artifacts from the Byzantine, Venetian and Ottoman eras. Located a little away from the Historical Museum is the Natural History Museum which showcases the biota of Crete.
Beaches
A quick five minute drive away from the bustling air of Heraklion, you would find yourself surrounded by golden sands and azure waters. This is Ammoudara beach, flanked with beach resorts and a popular spot for kiteboarding. If you are willing to travel further, you can check out the Malia beach or the Agia Pelagia beach, located within 40 km from the town.
Why should you visit?
Not only is Heraklion the capital of Crete, it also stands as its seat of history. With several important museums, monuments, and access to Greece’s important archaeological sites like Knossos, Heraklion is a paradise for history buffs. If history doesn’t interest you, then don’t worry – there are numerous beaches that would attract you!
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