Irakleio Harbour and Venetian Fortress
Irakleio’s Harbour is one of its most attractive features, and a stroll around here with a visit to the Venetian Fortress that guards it is a treat.
From the Fortress you get an excellent view not only of the city but of the remains of the Venetian shipyards, or Arsenali, across the water.
Venetian Shipyards
The Venetian Shipyards (also known as the Arsenali) in Irakleio are monumental remnants of the island’s period under the Republic of Venice (1204–1669). Located at the city’s old harbor, these structures were the heartbeat of Venetian maritime dominance in the Eastern Mediterranean.
Irakleio, then known as Candia, served as the strategic “Venice of the East,” and these dockyards were essential for the construction, repair, and winter housing of the formidable Venetian galleys.
Architecture and Design
The shipyards were designed as long, vaulted stone halls, uniquely engineered to withstand the weight of ships and the corrosive salt air. Originally, there were 19 shipyards divided into three distinct complexes:
- Arsenali Antichi (Old)
- Arsenali Vecchi (Aged)
- Arsenali Nuovi (New)
Each bay measured approximately 50 meters in length and 9 meters in width. Their high, barrel-vaulted roofs were designed to accommodate the massive masts of galleys, while the open-ended design facing the sea allowed vessels to be floated directly into the dry-docking area for maintenance.
Historical Legacy
During their peak in the 16th century, the shipyards were part of a sophisticated industrial network that included a massive water tank (the Zane Tank) and a salt warehouse. Today, only a portion of the original structures remains, as many were demolished in the early 20th century to make way for modern coastal roads. Those that stand today have been beautifully restored and serve as cultural hubs for exhibitions and events, standing as a stony testament to Heraklion’s identity as a former Mediterranean naval powerhouse.
The Fortress
The Fortress which dominates the harbour entrance was built in the period 1523-40, though there have been several earlier forts on the site, one being destroyed in an earthquake in 1303. The Venetians rebuilt it and named it the Rocca al Mare, the Rock in the Sea, and the impressive name is appropriate for the impressive building you discover beyond the entrance gate.
Inside you step into a huge and dark vaulted room, with other rooms and passageways leading off it. Ahead and to the right, a long and steep slope leads to the upper levels, where visitors can climb the walls for the impressive views of the harbour and city beyond, or out to sea. The walls have some towers too which can be entered, for even greater height.
Turkish Seige
While here, mull over the most significant episode in the history of the Fortress. In 1647 the Venetian rulers of Irakleio and the rest of Crete retreated into the Fortress under siege from Turkish invaders. That siege was to last until 1669 and so became one of the longest in history. Eventually after 22 years the Venetians had to succumb, but only after a long and bloody struggle during which it is said that 30,000 Venetians and 118,000 Turks lost their lives.
The Fortress has been extensively refurbished and some say it now looks more like a film set, but its scale remains remarkable. It now sometimes houses temporary exhibitions, and occasional plays and concerts on a stage set up in the upper level.
The Winged Lion
The winged lion of St Mark the Evangelist was the emblem of the Venetian Republic. It was depicted in all areas under its dominion, carved in limestone or marble above gateways or on public buildings and fortifications. Some 80 reliefs have been recorded on Crete.
Top Tip
When an exhibition is on the opening hours sometimes change, so you may want to check in advance if planning a special visit. See the official website here.
Top Tip
When an exhibition is on the opening hours sometimes change, so you may want to check in advance if planning a special visit. See the official website here.
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