HeraklionOutdoor Escape Game & Treasure Hunt

From Minoan Port to Arab Stronghold

Heraklion's history begins before its current name. The area served as a harbor for the Minoan city of Knossos, active around 2000-1350 BCE. Historians like Strabo referred to it as such, noting its role in the Minoan civilization's trade network.

After centuries of Byzantine rule, the city entered a new era in 824 CE when Arab Saracens, expelled from Al-Andalus, captured the settlement. They fortified the area with a wall of unbaked bricks and a deep ditch, renaming it Rabdh al-Khandaq, meaning "Castle of the Moat." This name evolved into Chandax under Byzantine rule and later Candia during the Venetian period.

Venetian and Ottoman Eras: Fortifications and Control

In 1204, Crete came under the control of the Republic of Venice, which recognized Candia's strategic importance. Starting in 1462, the Venetians began a project to rebuild and expand the city's fortifications. These walls, designed by military engineers like Michele Sanmicheli and Giulio Savorgnan, featured a triangular bastion system and deep ditches, encompassing a perimeter of approximately 4.5 km. Candia became the administrative and cultural center of the 'Kingdom of Candia', experiencing artistic and intellectual growth, known as the Cretan Renaissance.

The city's defenses were tested during the Siege of Candia, one of the longest sieges in history, lasting 21 years from 1648 to 1669. The city fell to the Ottoman Empire in 1669. Under Ottoman rule, the city was officially known as Kandiye, though locals often called it Megalo Kastro (Big Castle). The Ottomans maintained the Venetian fortifications, but the harbor gradually silted up, leading to a period of reduced activity for Heraklion.

• —Koules Fortress — This fortress stands at the Venetian port. Built by the Venetians in the early 16th century, it protected the harbor. Visitors can explore its walls and learn about its role in the city's defense, particularly during the Siege of Candia.
• —Venetian Walls of Heraklion — These fortifications, dating back to 1462, encircle much of the old city. Visitors can walk along sections of the walls, which offer views of Heraklion and the sea. The Martinengo Bastion contains the tomb of writer Nikos Kazantzakis.
• —Heraklion Archaeological Museum — This museum houses a collection of Minoan art and artifacts. It covers over 5,500 years of Cretan history, from the Neolithic period to Roman times. Exhibits include the Phaistos Disc, Snake Goddess figurines, and frescoes from Knossos.
• —Palace of Knossos — Located about 5 km south of Heraklion, this ancient Minoan palace was a center of the Minoan civilization. Visitors can explore reconstructed ruins, including the throne room and pillar crypt.
• —Morosini Fountain (Lion's Square) — This Venetian fountain, completed in 1628 by Francesco Morosini, brought fresh water to the city via a 15-kilometer aqueduct. It features four lions spouting water and various figures.
• —Bembo Fountain — In Kornarou Square, this Renaissance and Gothic style fountain, built between 1552 and 1554 by Captain Gian Matteo Bembo, was the first to channel spring water into the city. It features a headless Roman statue and coats of arms of Venetian dignitaries.

The best time to visit Heraklion is during the shoulder seasons: April–June and September–October. Temperatures are pleasant, ranging from 22°C to 28°C, and crowds are smaller than in summer. The sea is warm enough for swimming from late May through September.

Avoid July and August if possible. These are peak season months, with daily highs often reaching 33°C. The city experiences large crowds, making exploration more challenging. Winter (November to April) brings cooler temperatures, averaging 13°C to 20°C, and more rainfall, with December being the wettest month.

Heraklion International Airport (HER) is about 5 km east of the city center. Reach the city by public bus (lines #1 and #15), which costs around €1.70 and takes 30-40 minutes. Taxis cost €10-15. Buses run every 10-20 minutes to the central bus station.

Within Heraklion, walking is a way to explore the city center. Public buses are frequent, with 20 lines operating within the city and nearby areas. Tickets can be bought at kiosks near bus stops or on the bus for a slightly higher price. To reach Knossos, take city bus line #2 from Lion Square.

For exploring the wider region of Crete, renting a car is recommended. Taxis are available at the airport, port, and central squares like Eleftherias Square and Lions Square. Pre-booking is advisable for longer journeys or during peak hours.