Visit to Archaeological Sites
Visit to Archaeological Sites
The Palace of Knossos is known as the place where Greek culture began. During the Bronze Age it was one of the most important cities of the then known world.
The palace is famous for the myth of the Minotaur and King Minos. In addition to the legends surrounding the palace, the visitor can admire the many achievements of a great civilization, such as the advanced water management systems, irrigation systems, ventilation systems, pottery constructions which the Minoans had already developed from that time
Continuing our journey back in time and the history of Crete we will visit the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion located in the city center.
It houses representative exhibits from all periods of Cretan prehistory and history, covering a time span of over 5,500 years from the Neolithic era to Roman times. The important Minoan collection includes unique examples of Minoan art, many of which are real masterpieces.
The Museum of Heraklion is rightly considered as the most excellent museum of Minoan civilization in the world. Find out where it all started in the hot spot of culture which is the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion.
Next stop at Lions Square (Fontana Morosini) located in the heart of the city center.
It was built by the Venetians to solve the city’s water problem providing 1,000 barrels of water per day transporting them to the city center from Mount Juchtas, 15 kilometers away. It is still considered as an amazing achievement for this season.
Opposite the Morosini Fountain is the Basilica of St. Mark, a monument built by the Venetians to honor the patron saint of Venice, St. Mark. Today it houses the Municipal Gallery and is open to the public almost every day, all day long. The square is the busiest part of the city and a very popular place for every visitor to try traditional bougatsa or cheese pie.
Try a Greek coffee in one of the many cafes in the square and let the flavors travel you back in time.
A place that remains unforgettable to the visitor is the last stop of our excursion. The Fortress of Koule and the old port of Heraklion. The monument is a trademark of the city as well as one of the most beautiful locations to visit.
Koule Fortress was built by the Venetians to protect the city from pirates and the Turks. It was used as a prison and as a place of torture for the Greek. Its walls are haunted by stories of war, insurgency and resistance. Today it stands proudly next to the old port.
The old port nowadays is connected to the new port and plays a very important role, not only for Crete but also for the whole region of the Eastern Mediterranean. The old port is full of yachts and fishing boats. These fishing boats provide fresh fish to the city of Heraklion and near the entrance of Koule is the main fish market. The fish taverns located on the perimeter of the old port are waiting for you to visit.
Do not forget to try one of the local wine varieties to accompany the fish dish you like.
