Koules Venetian fortress Heraklion – Castello del Molo
You may get a good view of the stronghold from a variety of locations in Heraklion, even if you don’t plan to visit. However, if you have a few minutes to spare, I strongly recommend paying the EUR 4 entry price to see Koules Venetian fortress Heraklion it from the inside.
There is a lot of information on the history of the castle on the ground level, including cannons and amphorae that Jacques Costeau found while diving in the area. Koules Venetian fortress Heraklion castello del molo.
The view from the top floor is spectacular.
A Venetian coastal stronghold located near the ancient harbour’s entrance.
It was erected by the Venetians to guard the pier and port prior to the construction of the new Venetian fortress. It was last built between 1523 and 1540 to replace another structure wrecked by an earthquake.
Castel di Candia / da Marco Boschini Boschini, Marco (1613-1678). Cartographe
Marco Boschini (1602–1681) was an Italian painter and engraver of the early Baroque period in Venice.
He was born in Venice, and was educated in the school of Palma il Giovane. He painted The Last Supper for the sacristy of San Girolamo [it] at Venice. He also distinguished himself as an engraver and as a writer on art.
He was the author of several publications, such as: La Carta del Navegar pittoresco (1660), a panygeric poem about Venetian painting; Le minere della pittura veneziana (1664) and Le ricche minere della pittura veneziana (1674), two city guides of Venice;
I gioieli pittoreschi. Virtuoso ornamento della città di Vicenza (1676), a city guide of Vicenza.
It has been regularly restored as a result of the sea’s powerful waves, which have always caused damage to its masonry and foundation.
It was constructed of large stone blocks and had two storeys.
There are 26 rooms on the ground floor that were used to lodge captains or store food and munitions.
Koules Venetian fortress Heraklion
There are battlements on the top floor for mounting canons.
Koules Venetian fortress Heraklion
Turkish alterations include the higher sections of the castle and the present foundation of the minaret.
Koules Venetian fortress Heraklion
Relief plates with the lion of St. Mark, Venice’s emblem, stand out on the outside of the castle’s major sides.
Koules Venetian fortress Heraklion
During the Turkish occupation, the Turks tortured and imprisoned Cretan insurgents in the castle’s gloomy and damp chambers.
Today, the castle is available to the public and, during the summer, it is utilized for a variety of cultural activities (art exhibitions, music, theatre).
Koules Venetian fortress Heraklion
OPENING HOURS:
15/5-31/8: Wednesday-Monday 08.00-20.00
1/9-15/9: Wednesday-Monday 08.00-19.30
16/9-30/9: Wednesday-Monday 08.00-19.00
1/10-15/10: Wednesday-Monday 08.00-18.30
16/10-31/10: Wednesday-Monday 08.00-18.00
1/11-31/3: Wednesday-Monday 08.30-15.30, closed on 25-26/12, 1/1, 25/3
1/4-15/6: Wednesday-Monday 08.30-16.30
Closed on Tuesdays. Last admission: 20 minutes prior to closing time
Precautions applied for the spread of COVID 19.
The use of a thermometer and of a mask is mandatory to enter the site.
Ticket prices:
4 euro, Reduced 2 euro link
ACCESS:
The Museum is situated at the Venetian harbor, ΝW pier, Entrance from “18 Agglon” square
Disabilities: a wheelchair is required to use the lift to the upper floor – priority entrance
book your visit Click HERE koules.efah.gr
There are several things to do near the Koules Venetian fortress Heraklion in Heraklion, Crete:
- Explore the old town of Heraklion: The fortress is located in the heart of the old town, where you can wander through the narrow streets and admire the traditional architecture.
- Visit the Heraklion Archaeological Museum: This museum is located just a few minutes’ walk from the fortress and houses an impressive collection of Minoan artifacts and other ancient Greek treasures.
- Take a stroll along the city’s waterfront: The fortress is located on the waterfront, where you can walk along the promenade and enjoy the views of the sea and the boats in the port.
- Visit the Heraklion Cathedral: This impressive cathedral is located just a short distance from the fortress and is worth a visit to see its impressive frescoes and other religious art.
- Take a day trip to Knossos Palace: The ancient palace of Knossos is located just a short drive from Heraklion and is a must-see for history and archaeology buffs.
- Enjoy the local cuisine: Heraklion is known for its delicious traditional cuisine, and there are many restaurants and tavernas in the old town where you can try some of the local specialties.
See also:
Master Castle List 234 Castles and counting wandererscompass.com
