Heraklion should be very beautiful, having experienced throughout its history moments of great glory and growth. However, earthquakes, bombings, and vandalism have leveled ornate buildings, and only a very few specimens, such as the Lion Fountain of Morosini, the former City Hall, and a few others have survived. The buildings of Ruga Maista...
- Heraklion Prefecture / About region / Main cities & villages
Recognized and awarded by the European Union as an archetypal traditional village, the town of Archanes is a jewel in the center of the prefecture of Heraklion. Surrounded by mountains, and situated at an altitude of 380m, offers much to the visitor. The town carries a great history from the Minoan period through modern times. One can visit...
The beautiful sandy beach with rock carved caves, that from roman-era tombs were transformed into a comfortable refuge for Flower Children of the 1960s. It became world famous in that decade and still enjoys its fame today, though now the beach is organized, offering umbrellas and sun beds. The caves can be visited, but no longer for overnight...
Although it does not boast a long history, is one of the most important villages of the district, and is constantly developing. Situated in the center of the prefecture, at an altitude of 400 meters, its main attractions are the Byzantine churches and the nearby archaeological finds. The well known flea-market/bazaar that takes place in the...
A village-attraction located 11 km from Heraklion. It is a tourist complex built to resemble a traditional Cretan village with elements like picturesque streets and houses, painting, weaving and pottery workshops, an old-time blacksmith, a tavern, a traditional coffee shop, a church and a museum. It offers visitors a complete experience of the...
Formerly called Barbaroi, it is located 15 km away from Heraklion. The village played an important role both in the Byzantine and Ottoman periods, due to the vigorous activity of its residents. The village is the home of Nikos Kazantzakis, and the visitor can visit the Kazantzakis Museum and the Cretan Literature Center, in the central village...
A short distance East of Heraklion lays Hersonissos. It’s a developed tourist area with sandy beaches and tourist shops. One of the most popular tourist destinations during summer time, it is one of the most famous places in Heraklion prefecture, with modern infrastructure for accommodation and dining, water sports, mountain biking , hiking and...
Just past Hersonissos is Malia, well known as a tourist hotspot, and also because of the nearby Minoan Palace of Malia. It’s a hugely popular destination for the younger set, offering sandy beaches, tourist shops, a wide choice of food, lodging and entertainment and a lively nightlife. The fun and excitement of Malia can be rather intense, so...