Millions of tourists visit Greek resorts every year, and very often the first city they go to is Heraklion. Crete is the most popular island among travelers. Popularity is promoted by picturesque nature, favorable climatic conditions, because the sun shines here almost all year round. The mysterious ancient history also plays a significant role, because many people want to lift the veil of secrets, feel like a hero of myths and legends.
Initially, the city of Heraklion was named after Hercules. Crete at different times was under the control of different peoples. In the 7th century, the city was captured by the Saracens and renamed it Rabd el-Kandak, which means "moat" in translation. The Arabs made it the capital of the island. In the 9th century, the city passed into the hands of the Byzantines, they plundered it, took out all the we alth. For this they needed about 300 ships. In 1210, Heraklion was captured by the Venetians, and from this period its heyday began. At this time, the largest number of works and architectural monuments were created, culture developed.
Today, Heraklion has become not just the capital of the island, but the cultural and tourist center. Crete hosts annuallyhundreds of thousands of tourists who want to touch the history of an ancient civilization, get acquainted with its cultural heritage. The island is covered with myths and legends, each building, artifact found by archaeologists is fraught with some kind of mystery.
Knossos Palace is located a few kilometers from Heraklion. The researchers managed to restore part of its corridors, cellars, and halls. This building resembles a labyrinth, it is devoid of any symmetry. To move along it, people had to thoroughly study the building. Therefore, the myth of the Minotaur was invented. Having been here, you can imagine the monster, the hero Theseus and the thread of Ariadne.
At one time, many foreign archaeologists went to Heraklion for interesting and unique artifacts. Crete hides the untold riches of many civilizations buried in the ground. Archaeologists tried by hook or by crook to take the things found during excavations out of the country, but the city authorities prevented this in every possible way. As a result, a wonderful Archaeological Museum with a rich exposition appeared in Heraklion. Here you can get acquainted with the finds of the Minoan period, frescoes, everyday items, ceramics, statues, weapons.
The Historical Museum will acquaint visitors with how the island of Crete lived in different eras. Heraklion attractions are mainly architectural and cultural. For example, in the museum you can get acquainted with works of art, historical documents, works of famous icon painters,including El Greco. Martinengo and Cules fortresses, cathedrals, churches, narrow streets, Venetian fountains cause delight and surprise.
No one will go home without gifts, the city has an abundance of both small shops and chic shops, the market quarter, reminiscent of oriental bazaars, amazes with a variety of goods. All tourists who want to have a great rest, enjoy the view of amazing nature and learn something new about ancient times should go to the address: Greece, Crete, Heraklion. There are hotels here for every taste and budget, tourists can stay at Galaxy, Atrion, Kronos, Kastro, Agapi Beach, and others. The time spent on the island will be remembered for a long time.
