Heraklion Old City

Heraklion is a dynamic and cosmopolitan city that buzzes with activity all year. With a population of almost 200,000 people, it is Crete's most populous city, as well as the region's capital and economic hub. It is the island's main harbor, with a great heritage and sights in and outside the Old City. It boasts a gorgeous seaside area with coastal eateries, several notable museums, and charming squares where you may spend a day in a street-side cafe. Aside from the stunning natural environment and temperature, the city has a rich cultural past as well as strong academic, scientific, and business activities.

Heraklion may trace its origins to the Minoan era, when it served as the harbor for the renowned city of Knossos. The city at its current position, however, was founded by the Arabs in 824 and then extended and reinforced by the Venetians and Turks, who named it Candia's Large Castle. After the Turks were driven out of Crete in 1898, the city was given the name Heraklion.hotels heraklion

Heraklion Town, the magnificent headquarters of the Heraklion area, is one of Crete's large urban centers. Despite the fact that it is rather crowded, it retains its magical atmosphere. Walking through Heraklion town, you'll come across the Koules stronghold, the Venetian harbor, Turkish and Venetian fountains, Venetian architecture, and museums like the Archaeological Museum, Historical Museum, and Museum of Natural History.