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Heraklion City
Crete, Heraklion Knossos |
Welcome to Heraklion!
The capital city of Crete more than lives up to its reputation as being one of the most attractive of the many cities of the Mediterranean! It can satisfy the wishes and demands of a diverse variety of visitors from all over the world, while still providing enjoyment and satisfaction to its permanent residents. It is certainly not a matter of coincidence that it has been the center of Crete for so many centuries, and continues to be so, thanks to an abundance of sightseeing attractions, its joyous way of life, and the legendary hospitality of the Cretan people.
For inquisitive visitors, it is important to note that, in Heraklion, there are to be found and admired the oldest monuments in Europe. It is here where the first roots of the most ancient civilization in Europe were planted, a testimony for Western civilization, as we know it. It is here in Heraklion that Zeus, the God of Hospitality, fell in love with Europe, a most beautiful princess, from whom and whence the Minoan Kings were born, along with those wise mythical figures who laid the foundations for and instituted the first civilized society on our Continent. An outstanding archaeological museum, and the magnificent excavations at Knossos will certainly testify to that fact.
However, modern-day Heraklion has a much wider range of attractions to offer than “just ruins.” The Heraklion market is the richest of its kind on Crete, and among the most varied of any in the Mediterranean region. Souvenirs, furs, jewelry and gold items, food products and clothing, just about anything that one could wish for or need are here in abundance, and at a wide range of prices. The famous Cretan products, such as olive oil, wine, raki, honey, and herbs are, of course, of special importance and a major attraction to visitors and residents alike. They all seem to appreciate the locally distilled raki, a strong alcoholic beverage that, because it lacks any additives, can only add to the drinker’s “kefi” (good mood) and high spirits, without the risk of a hangover the following morning.
A multitude of lodging is available, whatever your budget, from luxury hotels to simple two-star bed and breakfasts. There are also furnished rooms, hostels, and lovely self-catering possibilities. On our site, we feature a wide selection to choose from; and, whether in town or at the sea, there is something for everyone and every budget.
Heraklion Knossos |
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Crete, Heraklion Knossos |
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Heraklion Excavation Finds |
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Heraklion: Aghios Titos Church Ruins |
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Heraklion: Koules Fortress And The Inner Port |
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Heraklion: Inner Port |
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Heraklion: Koules Fortress And The Inner Port At Sunset |
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Heraklion Minoan Statuette: Fertility Goddess from the Palace of Knossos |
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