Walk on the historic city walls
In Heraklion, history coexists with modern life – and nothing provides better proof than the Venetian walls, one of the largest fortifications in the Mediterranean. The Venetians started their construction in the 15th century to protect the city from raids. The legendary siege that led to the conquest of the city by the Ottomans lasted for 21 years, from 1648 to 1669.
Approximately seven kilometres long, with seven bastions and impressive gates, the walls surround the historic centre and are an emblematic reference point for visitors. The most famous and largest bastion is Martinego, where the tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis is located. The gates of the city walls, such as the Gate of Bethlehem, the Gate of Jesus, and the Gate of St George, have been restored and currently host cultural events, with exhibitions, concerts and theatrical performances.
The Venetian walls of Heraklion are more than a monument. They are also a place for walking, recreation, and everyday life. Modern routes on the walls are an opportunity to exercise or relax with unique views of the city and the sea, while the locals consider them part of their identity.
Touring the Venetian walls can be combined with a walk in the historical centre and museums of Heraklion, which highlight the cultural wealth of the city.
Approximately seven kilometres long, with seven bastions and impressive gates, the walls surround the historic centre and are an emblematic reference point for visitors. The most famous and largest bastion is Martinego, where the tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis is located. The gates of the city walls, such as the Gate of Bethlehem, the Gate of Jesus, and the Gate of St George, have been restored and currently host cultural events, with exhibitions, concerts and theatrical performances.
The Venetian walls of Heraklion are more than a monument. They are also a place for walking, recreation, and everyday life. Modern routes on the walls are an opportunity to exercise or relax with unique views of the city and the sea, while the locals consider them part of their identity.
Touring the Venetian walls can be combined with a walk in the historical centre and museums of Heraklion, which highlight the cultural wealth of the city.
