Heraklion

Heraklion: history & character

Capital of Crete and the island's largest city (about 145,000 inhabitants), Heraklion was founded as a Roman then Arab port (Rabdh-el-Khandak, 9th century), before becoming the great Venetian emporium of Candia from 1204 to 1669 — over 450 years of Latin rule that left the city its 4 km ring of walls, the Koules harbour fortress and the Morosini Fountain. Ottoman rule (1669-1898) added minarets and Turkish baths before Crete joined Greece in 1913. Today Heraklion is the gateway to the Minoan palace of Knossos (4 km south, founded c. 2000 BC) and the ferry hub for Athens. For travellers with a dog, it is one of Greece's easiest cities: mild climate year-round (12-28°C), two signed Bau-Beach zones east and west, relaxed taverna culture welcoming dogs on terraces, and a 24/7 veterinary hospital serving all of Crete.