Monuments to visit Crete

The fountain was inaugurated in 1628 by the Venetian governor Francesco Morosini, hence its name, but it is best known as the "Fountain of the Lions", in Greek Liontaria. The water flows through the mouths of four lions, symbols of Venetian power, and the basins are decorated with representations of mythological scenes, carved in marble, where some classical figures such as tritons or nymphs can be found... This fountain was the first to bring water to the city of Heraklion, hence its current historical power. In spite of its appearance today rather banal, one can easily recognize that the work of its construction had to be considerable. The large statue of Poseidon, which occupied the centre of the fountain, was destroyed during the Turkish occupation. The square, where 25 Avgustou Street, the main pedestrian street leading down to the port, opens, is a very important cultural and tourist centre of Heraklion. But don't just look up at the four lions, also look under the fountain through the four hermetically sealed and lighted portholes: there you can see the foundations of the Venetian aqueduct. One of the emblematic places of Heraklion because of its history, the square of the Lions (or E. Venizelou) is not very impressive. However, it can be pleasant to have lunch in one of the taverns in the square where the fountain is located, especially those whose terraces on the first floor will give you a pleasant view of the surrounding animation.

Built in 1628 by F. Morosini, the Loggia, an emblematic building of the Venetian period, was the building where the nobility and the authorities of Candia gathered to discuss or consult each other on political, economic and commercial matters. Deprived of its functions during the Ottoman period and destroyed during the Second World War, it was scrupulously rebuilt in the same place. It is a beautiful building to visit on a walk. At the northern exit, the small Sacredo fountain has remained intact over time.

The ruins of the Venetian bridge used to cross the now dry torrent are admirable. A still visible work of art that would go almost unnoticed. The most symbolic figure of the entry or exit of Samaria.

It's the highest point on the island. Built in 1880 by the French Ottoman Lighthouse Company, it was the second most powerful lighthouse in the world at the time. Located at an altitude of 360 m, its light covered a distance of 42 miles. However, at the slightest fog, the lighthouse became completely ineffective. Recently renovated, it has been fitted with a café and a souvenir shop in an architectural style that can be controversial. Nevertheless, it is very pleasant to have a drink in front of the setting sun in this unique site.