Venetian Walls of Heraklion — Attraction in Municipality of Heraklion

Though disgracefully unattended, the walls of Heracleion remain massively impressive, and an enduring landmark in world history as far as fortifications are concerned. These walls repelled a Turkish host for no less than 21 (!) years of continuous attacks and bombarding, setting the global record for such a feat. Even after this punishment, the walls did not falter. Nor did the courage of its defenders. Alas, food is necessary even for the brave to keep the fight on. Thus, the city was finally surrendered. Pity that the current authorities have taken so little care of this treasure. So when you visit it, try to overlook the weeds and the littered corners. Look at the massive, imposing walls. Try to understand their masterful design, which ensures that anyone who dares to approach can always be hit by three sides. Feel the agony of the defenders, the despair of the poor lads ordered to attack. Enjoy the view, especially on...

This is truly disgraceful.

The ruins of the Venetian fortress are undeniably impressive, which is no surprise given how significant the island of Crete, and especially the city of Heraklion (Candia), was to the Venetian Empire.

With a bit of effort, the walls of the old citadel could easily become one of Greece’s most important tourist attractions. Sadly, the authorities seem uninterested in restoring this monument, leaving the walls in the state you see in the pictures: neglected, overgrown with weeds, and almost entirely overlooked by tourists.

If the cost of excavation is prohibitive, even a few informational plaques placed here and there would be helpful. But instead, the authorities are doing nothing, and the walls continue to deteriorate year after year, especially given the frequent surface earthquakes...

It’s a bit tricky to find the way to get up there but when you do, the glory of the cement city of Heraklion unravels! We walked for around 30 minutes on the walls and took in some interesting views of this anarchically built city. Although the pathway on the walls looks recently constructed, the lighting seems to be inefficient. We went early in the evening and we had to use the flashlights of our phones every now and then... Although we didn’t face any problem, I believe that better lighting would make this place feel safer… There were some explanatory signs but without proper lighting, they were...