Summary
The capital of Crete, Heraklion is a port city with a rich and intriguing history. Throughout its long existence, the city has been under the rule of various powers, including the Byzantines, Moors, Venetians, and Ottomans, before becoming part of modern Greece in the 20th century.
The Venetians dominated during the late Medieval and Renaissance periods, constructing elaborate fortifications that successfully withstood an Ottoman siege for an impressive 21 years. Additionally, the nearby site of Knossos, located to the south in the hills, served as a center for the Minoan Civilization and is considered Greece’s oldest city.
The palace complex within this archaeological site is a labyrinth of ruins adorned with colorful frescoes that date back thousands of years. Many artifacts from the Minoan era are housed in the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, recognized as the premier destination for studying this ancient civilization.
Let us explore the best things to do in Heraklion:
1. Knossos
The semi-mythical site of Knossos features a Bronze Age city and palace constructed by the Minoan civilization.
This area has been continuously inhabited for approximately 9,000 years, reaching its peak around 2000 BC when the palace was established.
Knossos is well-known for its associations with numerous figures from Greek mythology, including King Minos, the Minotaur, and Daedalus and Icarus.
As you navigate the intricate ruins of the palace on Kephala Hill, you will uncover insights into ancient earthquakes and conflicts, as well as witness the highly advanced architectural features such as plaster, beams, light wells, drainage, and water supply systems.
Noteworthy areas include the Throne Room, Sacred Repositories, and Pillar Crypts in the west wing, while the east wing featured residential quarters and reception areas.
Heading south leads you to the Corridor of Procession and its entrance adorned with the Prince of Lilies fresco, whereas to the north lies the captivating Bull Hunt fresco.
2. Heraklion Archaeological Museum
Few museums can rival this venue when it comes to Minoan history.
Artifacts from Minoan sites across Crete are carefully curated here, with many pieces considered masterpieces of ancient artistry.
One stunning example is the life-sized Prince of the Lilies, derived from the fresco at the entrance of the Palace of Knossos, dated around 1600-1500 BC. Another significant artifact is the Phaistos Disc, a clay disc measuring 15cm in diameter, inscribed with 241 symbols whose meanings remain debated to this day.
Other remarkable items include the Snake Goddess figurines, the bee pendant from Malia, the striking bull’s head rhyton from Knossos, along with an extensive array of decorative weaponry, pottery, frescoes, clay figurines, and gold artifacts.
3. Historical Museum of Crete
If you seek to understand the timeline following the Minoans, this museum provides a comprehensive overview beginning from the 4th century AD. Its exhibits include sculptures, frescoes, jewelry, coins, manuscripts, architectural remnants, woven art, cannons, portable religious icons, ceramics, and much more.
A model measuring 4 x 4 meters showcases the appearance of Heraklion during the Venetian era.
Of particular importance is the museum’s focus on the Battle of Crete, which occurred from May 20th to June 1st, 1941. In this conflict, Axis powers captured the island, albeit at substantial losses.
A notable highlight of the museum is the preservation of the only two paintings by the illustrious Cretan Renaissance master El Greco that remain on the island, namely the Baptism of Christ and View of Mount Sinai.
4. Venetian Harbour
Hide within a secluded area to the west of Heraklion’s new harbor lies the historic maritime hub from the Venetian period.
At the entrance to the harbor stands Koules Fortress, which will be discussed shortly.
On dry land, two distinct rows of arches remain, remnants of the Venetian arsenals or shipbuilding warehouses, indicating the sophistication of Venetian maritime operations at the time.
You can stroll along the mole, continuing past the fortress for a panoramic view of the substantial cruise liners situated in the modern port.
5. Koules Fortress
Overseeing the Venetian harbour is a robust square-shaped fortress constructed during the 16th century when the island fell under the control of the Republic of Venice.
The construction of Koules Fortress spanned from 1524 to 1540 and replaced an earlier fortification erected after the Venetians first captured Heraklion in the 1200s.
The durability of Koules Fortress is attributed to its substantial design, featuring external walls measuring up to 8.7 meters thick.
The fortress participated in the second-longest siege in history during the Siege of Candia (Heraklion), where the Ottomans besieged the city for 21 years from 1648 to 1669 before the city ultimately fell.
The upper level of the fortress offers a commanding view of the harbor. Below, vaulted passageways house cannons, numerous cannonballs, amphorae, informational displays, and a brief documentary concerning the fort’s history.
6. Venetian Walls
Heraklion has possessed fortifications since the First Byzantine Period, which commenced in the 4th century.
These defenses were enhanced by the Moors in the 9th and 10th centuries, and again by the Byzantines after their reconquest of the city.
However, it was the Venetians who introduced a formidable four-kilometer system of walls with four gates and seven bastions, complete with a moat, in response to the increasing threat from the Ottoman Empire between 1462 and 1560.
These walls, designed in straight lines, played a crucial role in maintaining a hold against the Ottomans during the aforementioned 21-year siege, which is estimated to have resulted in the loss of 100,000 Turkish lives. The Ottomans ultimately secured a breakthrough at the western St Andrew Gate in 1669. This significant location invites exploration through its ramparts, Renaissance arcades, and passageways.
7. Agios Minas Cathedral
Accommodating up to 8,000 worshippers, Agios Minas Cathedral ranks as one of Greece’s largest churches.
Construction spanned 30 years during the latter half of the 19th century, facing interruptions due to the Cretan Revolt against Ottoman rule from 1866 to 1869. Intriguingly, the project received partial funding from the Sultan of the Ottoman Empire, Abdülaziz.
Upon entering, take a moment to admire the Byzantine-style frescoes depicting apostles, biblical narratives, and Christ Pantocrator in the center of the main dome.
The interior also features a striking marble iconostasis, a replacement for the original wooden screen crafted in the 20th century.
8. Venetian Loggia
This Mannerist structure from the 17th century, located in St Titus’ Square, is a remnant of Heraklion’s Venetian past.
Historically, the Loggia served as a meeting place for the city’s nobility to deliberate on political and commercial affairs.
During the Ottoman period, it transitioned into the headquarters for the high finance officer and the secretary general, who mediated relations between Heraklion’s Christian population and the Turkish authorities.
By the late 19th century, the Loggia had fallen into disrepair but underwent restoration after World War II.
It has since functioned as a town hall, hosting the weekly Municipal Council meetings.
While the interior of the Loggia is not open to the public, visitors can explore the arcade on the ground floor.
9. St Catherine of Sinai
Located adjacent to the cathedral in St Catherine Square, this former monastery church was founded in the 10th century.
The remaining structure dates back to the 16th century and functioned as a school for science, literature, and art during its time.
It is believed that Doménikos Theotokópoulos (El Greco) was among its students.
Additionally, Michael Damaskinos, a prominent post-Byzantine Cretan artist and leader of the Cretan School, is thought to have created six exquisite icons that constitute the centerpiece of the museum for Christian art housed within the church.
The museum features paintings, manuscripts, vestments, and wooden sculptures.
10. Natural History Museum of Crete
Operated by the University of Crete, the Natural History Museum is situated in a repurposed former power plant.
The exhibitions encompass various aspects of zoology and botany in the eastern Mediterranean, alongside Crete’s palaeontology, mineralogy, and geology.
Visitors can experience detailed “Mega-Dioramas” representing Crete’s wildlife and ecosystems, as well as observe the island’s fish, insects, and reptiles in the “Living Museum,” featuring terrariums and aquariums. Given Crete’s geological activity, you can engage with seismic science at the “Seismic Table,” simulating an earthquake experience.
11. Agios Titos Church
Situated on the bustling August 25th Street, Agios Titos is the city’s oldest church, dedicated to Saint Titus, Crete’s inaugural bishop.
Established in 961 AD by Emperor Nikephoros II Phokas after Byzantine forces regained the island, the church has experienced numerous adversities over the centuries, suffering from multiple fires and earthquakes.
The most recent reconstruction occurred in 1856, during which the church was rebuilt entirely, notably under Ottoman rule, resulting in a design that initially resembled a mosque.
The minaret was removed in 1920, and an Orthodox renovation was completed in 1925. Among its relics is the skull of St Titus, which was transported to Venice in the 17th century but has since been returned.
12. Morosini Fountain
Located just below the Loggia, Lions Square serves as one of the most vibrant areas in Heraklion’s old town.
Visitors often gather here to relax at cafe tables, explore local shops, and enjoy ice cream.
This square is highlighted by a remarkable monument unveiled in 1628 after extensive construction efforts.
This fountain was supplied with water from an aqueduct that carried it 15 kilometers from Mount Juktas.
Rising from the lower basin is an octagonal pedestal adorned with four lions, giving the square its name. The basin features eight lobes with reliefs depicting various Greek mythological figures, including nymphs and the god Triton.
13. St Mark’s Basilica
A short distance from the Morosini Fountain, the grand portico of St Mark’s Basilica recalls Heraklion’s Venetian heritage.
Constructed shortly after the Venetians seized the city in the 13th century, this basilica is dedicated to their patron saint.
Historically a symbol of Venetian dominance, the basilica hosted official ceremonies and served as a resting place for Venetian nobility.
During Ottoman rule, it was repurposed into a mosque, with its bell tower replaced by a minaret that was later dismantled in the 20th century.
Currently, St Mark’s Basilica operates as Heraklion’s Municipal Art Gallery, welcoming visitors nearly every day.
14. Amoudara Beach
Starting on the western perimeter of Heraklion’s city center, Amoudara Beach stretches for an impressive six kilometers.
Five bathing areas along the beach earn the Blue Flag designation annually, recognizing their quality of amenities and water.
The beach accommodates both those seeking vibrant atmosphere and crowds, as well as individuals preferring quieter locations further along.
It features moderate waves and ideal wind conditions favorable for windsurfing activities.
Continuing past the western edge of Amoudara leads you to the stunning Almiros Gorge, adjacent to which is the tranquil Almiros Wetlands, a lush haven amidst Crete’s arid landscape.
15. Wine Tourism
A fascinating way to immerse yourself in Crete’s ancient heritage is by venturing into the region’s historic, hilly landscape to the south of Heraklion.
Once you ascend beyond 300 meters, picturesque vineyards emerge, cultivating grape varieties such as Greek Vilana, Vidiano, and Mandilaria, along with international types including Syrah, Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc.
To enhance your experience, consider participating in a guided tour and tasting at several wineries near Heraklion: Domaine Paterianakis, Lyrarakis, and Douloufakis.
Lyrarakis is noteworthy for championing local varietals and reviving two ancient Cretan wines, Plyto and Dafni.
Tour participants are welcomed to explore the scenic facilities, learn directly from the owners regarding winemaking processes, and enjoy a curated tasting session.
