Explore historic soldiers' barracks and prison then look out onto the city and the sea from the walls of the Koules Fortress. This 500-year-old battlement was built to house a garrison of soldiers and provide cover for canons that would repel invaders. As you explore, spot detailed marble reliefs depicting St. Mark’s lion, the symbol of Venice, on several walls around the fortress.
Historians suspect that some sort of the fortress has protected Heraklion’s harbour since the 10th century. The Koules Fortress in its modern form was a Venetian construct, dating back to the 16th century. Locals call it Rocca a Mare, or “rock of the sea”. Its more widely known name derives from the Turkish word for fortress. Admire its strong square design, enhanced by thick stonewalls, that make it a very imposing sight. To many locals, it is a symbol of the city’s strength and durability.
Approach the fortress on foot from the port and admire its prominent silhouette above the harbour’s western breakwater. From closer up, inspect its carved walls which are decorated with the image of St. Mark’s lion.
Inside the fortress, a series of archways and courtyards provide access to its 26 rooms. These low curving entrances are worth pausing to look at, though taller visitors should watch their heads. Among the rooms, see where soldiers slept and weapons were stored. Occasionally, these rooms will be used to house art exhibitions or performances. Check with visitor information to see what’s on during your stay.
Go into the fortress dungeon and see the prison cells that were used for Cretan rebels. Ask your guide about the ghost stories of these rooms that persist to this day. Walk out onto the fortress walls and find an incredible view over the ramparts. Imagine a life as a Venetian guard as you scan the endless Mediterranean horizon for Turkish invaders.
Find Koules Fortress on the western side of Heraklion harbour. Expect an entry fee. The museum is open daily, except for Mondays.
