Crete, a gem in the Mediterranean, offers a tapestry of rich history, vibrant culture, and legendary hospitality. Explore hidden myths and captivating folklore in every corner of its breathtaking landscapes. Known for its warm and welcoming spirit, Crete invites you to immerse yourself in an authentic Greek experience.
Heraklion, Crete's largest city and a key Greek metropolis, invites travelers to explore its rich tapestry of history. The city has thrived under varied cultural influences, leaving behind a treasure trove of Byzantine, Venetian, and Ottoman monuments for the modern explorer.
The city is marked by the iconic 16th-century Koules fortress, perched at the edge of the old Venetian port. The imposing fortification walls from the same era stand as silent sentinels, testifying to the city's storied past.
Start at the ancient Venetian harbor, featuring medieval shipyards called tarsanades. Admire the Koule Fortress, built in the 16th century, started by the Arabs and strengthened by the Venetians. See the Martinengo bastion, where writer N. Kazantzakis is buried, with broad views of Heraklion. The city's core retains medieval grandeur with the 16th-century Venetian Loggia, a Renaissance symbol and former noble's meeting place.
Scattered throughout Heraklion, discover the city's Venetian and Turkish fountains, each with a story to tell. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum, a trove of Minoan treasures, is an unmissable destination, along with the Historical Museum, Museum of Natural History, and the Cretaquarium.
Near Heraklion, in Hersonissos, golf enthusiasts can find a court perfect for all skill levels. And for a taste of Crete, the Heraklion food market offers an array of local products, from famed Cretan olive oil to raki and honey — ideal souvenirs of your Cretan journey.
