The Cultural and Historical Heritage of Heraklion
Heraklion is one of the notable cities in the Mediterranean. In fact, with its traditional and cultural inclination, it continues to sell itself by being the capital of the Region of Crete. This place is certainly one of the most recommended tourist spots with modern shops, Venetian monuments and with museums depicting its history.
Looking back at how Heraklion evolved, you may appreciate it by looking at the different settlements in the area. From the very first European civilisation by the Minoans to the invasion of the Turks in 1669, you would definitely say that the populace went through its own high and low points. However, with the strength and perseverance of its people, it redeemed itself thus being in the stature it is right now.
Heraklion Sights
If you want to get a grasp of what transcended in this beautiful Greek city, it pays to take a look at some of the world-renowned sights in Heraklion. Each destination has its own story to tell and has a meaningful origin.
Lions Square. Also known as the Lions area, this is a minute place where several tourists and locales spend time together. It is one of the most sought-after travel destinations whilst in Heraklion recognised for its beautifully crafted fountain where people may just sit down and exchange thoughts and emotions.
It was traditionally known as the Plateau Eleftheriou Venizelou in commemoration of one of the greatest men of Crete – Venizelos. It portrays Greek mythology characters embellished on the stone structure of the fountain. The name Lions Square was derived from the fountain’s sink with four lions seemingly sitting whilst water is running from their mouths.
25th of August Street. This is one of the places extending to and from the Lions Square. The name was coined after the so-called massacre of martyrs took place on this day in the year 1898. Turks brutally killed a lot of Cretans and Britons in order to gain power over the area. However, they failed to achieve their goal because cognisance was given to the martyrs instead. The struggles of the Cretans paid-off leading to the development of the region and its unification with Greece in 1913.
Now, this historical structure headed to the construction of several structures which tourists consider during a visit in the area. It is currently the home for St. Titus’ Cathedral, the Venetian club Loggia and the Municipal Art Gallery (formerly St. Mark’s Basilica).
Aside from the above-mentioned places, Heraklion is also best appreciated for its museums. The history will not be completely talked about without the likes of the Heraklion Archaeological Museum which houses the different artefacts from the Minoan Civilisation; and the Natural History Museum which is well commendable for its participation in annual summer festivities portraying the performing arts. With all these wonderful tourist spots, you will surely want to give yourself a taste of what Heraklion offers.
You want your vacation to start as soon as possible - and often slip into vacation mode during the comfortable taxi ride from the airport. Why bother with long queues waiting for a taxi at Heraklion Airport when you can prebook one and have the taxi driver wait for you any time of the day or night, even during strikes or national holidays?
