Sightseeing in Heraklion
OK, you arrived in Heraklion in Crete and you are now wondering what should you do? We have a list for you.
Town (Heraklion): On the northern side of Crete
Heraklion Town is the largest city in Crete and the main transportation hub of the island. It distinguishes by its large fortress at the entrance of the port. Many beautiful beaches surround this big town.
Minoan Palace of Knossos
The Minoan Palace of Knossos lies about 5 km south of Heraklion Town. This is the most famous and largest Minoan site in Greece. Discovered in the early 20th century by the British archaeologist Sir Arthur Evans, the site was found almost intact and covered by ashes. This led scientists to believe that the palace was destroyed by a tsunami wave caused by the volcanic eruption of Santorini in 1,550 BC.
Koules Fortress
Koules Fortress is the symbol of Heraklion Town. It stands at the entrance of the port and dominates the lovely Venetian harbor. The fortress was originally built by the Venetians in the 13th century but then it underwent many transformations by the Ottomans, who ruled Crete till the late 19th century.
Phaestos Minoan Palace
The Minoan Palace of Phaestos is the second most important Minoan site in Crete, after Knossos. The design of the palace is a copy of Knossos, but on a smaller scale and without many labyrinths.
Matala Caves
The caves of Matala are formed in the rock formations right above the beach. They were used as residences in prehistoric times and then as graves in the Hellenistic and Roman periods.
Creta Aquarium in Gouves
Founded in 2005, this is the largest aquarium in the Mediterranean. It depicts marine life with upgraded and impressive presentations of natural landscapes, offering visitors a chance to see rare sea living creatures.
Gortyn Ancient Site
The Doric town of Gortyn was one of the strongest in ancient Crete. It lies 44 km southwest of Heraklion, close to the villages Agioi Deka and Kasteli. The famous Minoan law code has been excavated on Gortyn as well as a superb Roman Odeon. The findings testify about the prosperity of the ancient city of Gortyn, which used to be an ally of Rome and the capital of Crete.