Heraklion is the largest city on the island of Crete and the capital of both the island and the prefecture of the same name. Heraklion’s Mediterranean climate is typical with hot, dry summers and mild, relatively dry winters. Occasionally, Mediterranean breezes or an uncommon frost brings variety to the daily weather.

History

The earliest civilization may have been in the area of Heraklion in about 2000 BC. Evidence of the Minoan culture is found in the palace ruins of Knossos. In 824 AD, Arab Saracens founded the port city of Khandak, a pirate haven. In 961 AD, the Byzantines razed the city and killed the Arab population. They controlled the rebuilt city until 1204 when the city was purchased by the Venetians. Renamed Candia, it remained under their rule until the Ottoman Turks seized and renamed it Megalo Kastro. In 1898, the Turks left and the Greek population remaining renamed the city Iraklion.

Art & Museums

As of fall 2007, the Heraklion Archaeological Museum was closed for renovations but limited access to some of the exhibits was located in the museum service offices nearby. The Historical Museum of Crete displays exhibits detailing island history from the beginnings of Christianity to current times. A primary historical site in Heraklion is Knossos Palace, an imposing Minoan structure which covers five acres. The church of Ayia Ekaterini or Saint Catherine houses sixteenth century religious artwork and icons painted by the famous Michail Damaskinos. The Morosini Fountain in Heraklion’s central square is known as the Fountain of the Lions, the lion being symbolic of Venetian power. The harbor breakwater leads to the Koules fortress which once protected the Venetian harbor. The Summer Arts Festival from July to September includes performances of Greek dance, theater, and music.

Nightlife

At least one night a week many of the better hotels in Heraklion offer an evening of Cretan music and dance. The Marquee has bands, tribute acts, and acrobatic and dance shows while Connexions Bar with its casual atmosphere has special nights with comedy acts, karaoke, or live music. The popular Veneto Bar serves up modern music. Aposperides offers traditional Cretan music and dancing through the night. Heraklion’s bars and clubs are mostly located near the harbor and shore. If a quieter evening venue is preferred, the Marina Café across from the Koules fortress overlooks the harbor.

How to get there

Heraklion is the site of the Nikos Kazantzakis International Airport. Olympic Airlines and Aegean Airlines have daily flights from Athens to Heraklion. During the tourist season from April through the first part of November charter flights from many major European cities land at the airport. From April to September, two daily ferries from Piraeus port in Athens enter Heraklion’s harbor. Inter-island boats can be chartered.