Koules Fortress (Rocca a Mare)
Κούλες
A Venetian sea fortress at the entrance to Heraklion’s old harbour, rebuilt in the 16th century. Climb to its battlements for views over the harbour and old town, and the outer breakwater is a favourite walking spot.
Koules Fortress was rebuilt by the Venetians between 1523 and 1540. Its exterior walls bear reliefs of the Winged Lion of St Mark, and the fortress withstood a 21-year Ottoman siege. The two-storey vaulted halls inside often host exhibitions, and the roof terrace offers wide views. Admission is about 4 euros. The roughly 2 km breakwater outside the fortress is where locals jog, fish and watch the sunset. The nearby remains of the Venetian Arsenal are worth a quick look on the way.
Opening hours
About 8:00–20:00 (shorter in winter)
Nearby sights
- Church of Saint Titus
- Heraklion Archaeological Museum
- Historical Museum of Crete
- Lions Square, Morosini Fountain & Venetian Loggia
- 1866 Street Market
- Agios Minas Cathedral
- Natural History Museum of Crete
- Venetian Walls & Tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis