Heraklion (Ηράκλειο), which is the capital city of Crete, is the island’s modern economic centre. With a population of around 179,000 and an additional 211,000 across its metro area, it’s Greece’s fourth-largest city.
Located on the northern coast along the Sea of Crete, Heraklion’s history dates back to 7,000 BCE. It is one of Europe’s longest continuously inhabited regions. Heraklion is also the capital city of Minoan Crete, located approximately 5 km south of Knossos.
Join us in the article as we explore the capital city of Crete and its historical significance. Through the Minoan legacy and its top attractions and cultural highlights, we will share the best places to visit.
What is the capital city of Crete?
Heraklion has a long history behind it. Crete’s capital city was previously called Chandax (Arab/Byzantine), Candia (Venetian), and Kandiye (Ottoman). Though Chania was the regional centre under Ottoman rule, Heraklion was reinstated as the capital city of Crete in 1971.
Arab & Byzantine Eras (9th–10th c.)
In 824 AD, Arab conquerors took the city, then called Rabdh al-Khandaq (Trench Castle). The Byzantines reclaimed it in 961 under Nikephoros II Phokas, rebuilding defences and renaming the site Chandax.
Venetian Rule (1204–1669)
After the Fourth Crusade, Venice captured the island and established the Kingdom of Candia. The Venetians created a three-kilometre ring of walls, seven bastions, gates, and the powerful Koules harbour fortress. This turned Heraklion into one of the Mediterranean’s most fortified cities. These bastions protected the city during a 21-year siege (1648–1669), one of the longest in recorded history.
Ottoman Period (1669–1898)
After the fall of Candia in 1669, the Ottomans ruled, calling the city Kandiye. The city lost its capital status in 1849, moving to Chania.
Modern Rule
Following years as part of the autonomous Cretan State (1898–1913) and eventually uniting with Greece in 1913, Heraklion was continuously attacked and recaptured by Nazi Germany in 1941. After reclaiming its spot as the capital city of Crete in 1971, from the 1980s onward became a major destination for tourism and commerce.
Today, Heraklion is the island’s administrative headquarters and a lively port city connecting travellers to mainland Greece and other islands.
What is the influence of the Minoans on Crete?
About 5 kilometres south of Heraklion is the Palace of Knossos. This is the legendary capital city of Minoan Crete and an archaeological site with more than just ruins.
Knossos began as a Neolithic settlement around 7,000 BC, but over the centuries, it grew to be the capital of the Minoan civilisation. By the Neopalatial period (around 1900–1350 BC), it became a grand palace complex that served as the royal residence and also the political, religious, and economic centre.
The palace itself is famous for its labyrinthine design. You can still visit the reconstructed throne room, detailed frescoes, and an advanced drainage and water management system that was well ahead of its time.
Key Attractions in the City
Here’s a checklist of must-see sites in Heraklion. Each place offers a glimpse into the city’s rich history of ancient, medieval, and modern heritage.
🏛️Knossos Palace
- Just 5 km south of Heraklion’s centre
- Explore the largest Bronze Age archaeological site in Crete
- Highlights include the reconstructed throne room, vivid frescoes, and the mythic Labyrinth
- Best visited in the morning to avoid crowds. We highly recommend taking a guided tour here.
🗿Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Located in the city centre, close to Eleftherias Square
- Has one of the most comprehensive Minoan collections in the world
- Don’t miss the Snake Goddess figurines, the Phaistos Disc, and the Prince of the Lilies fresco
- Ideal to pair with a visit to Knossos for full historical context. You can purchase combo admission tickets.
🏰Koules Fortress (Rocca a Mare) & Venetian Fortifications
- Located at the old harbour’s entrance
- Built in the 16th century by the Venetians to protect the city
- Climb to the top for panoramic views of the sea and city skyline
- Don’t forget to walk along the preserved city walls and bastions
⛲Historic Squares and Landmarks
- Morosini Fountain (Lions Fountain) is a popular meeting point surrounded by cafés
- The Venetian Loggia is a striking 17th-century building now serving as City Hall
- Agios Minas Cathedral, one of Greece’s largest Orthodox churches
- Stroll through Heraklion’s old town
Other cultural and archaeological sites
In addition to the capital city of Minoan Crete, through Knossos and the Archaeological Museum, nearby sites like Phaistos, Malia, and Hagia Triada are a must-visit.
These locations offer a deeper and more comprehensive look into Crete’s Bronze Age. Altogether, they showcase the island’s ancient legacy to the present.
Important visitor Tips and local expereince
When planning a trip to the capital city of Crete, knowing when to visit can make all the difference. The best times to visit Heraklion are during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall). Typically, this is when the weather is warm but not too hot, and there are fewer crowds. As a result, there is more availability for accommodations, entrance to attractions, and generally, prices are lower throughout the city.
We highly suggest you book guided tours in advance, especially if you’re visiting during holiday periods. Make sure to check with local museums and attractions to confirm timetables, as opening hours may change.
For a taste of local life, we suggest exploring local markets, sipping coffee at street-side cafés, and exploring authentic Cretan dishes. In the evenings, the port area is full of activity, with a fun nightlife to enjoy.
Finally, explore more of Crete with day trips from Heraklion. Head west to Samaria Gorge for a scenic hike, visit the famous pink sands at Elafonisi Beach, or explore some smaller nearby villages.
Come and discover the capital city of Crete
Heraklion has the perfect mix of ancient history and modern Mediterranean life. From its roots as the capital city of Minoan Crete to its Venetian fortresses and modern urban scene, the city has lots to offer.
Ready to explore the heart of the island? Book your accommodation with Oreo Travel and enjoy Crete’s capital in comfort and style.
