Rocca al Mare, Heraklion - Greece
Posted by: manchanegra
N 35° 20.640 E 025° 08.160
35S E 330611 N 3912786
Rocca al Mare is the biggest monument of the Heraklion.
Waymark Code: WMWWD
Location: Greece
Date Posted: 10/30/2006
Views: 72
Rocca al Mare is a Venetian medieval fortress (also known as Koules) located on the port. Is the biggest monument of the Heraklion.
The Castle of Heraklion, stands at the entrance of the venetian harbour and is said to be the best preserved sample of the city's venetian fortification. It was originally built by the Venetians in the 13th century and was destroyed by two strong earthquakes, in 1303 and 1500. It was rebuilt in 1523 - 1540 and was named "Rocca al Mare". The Castle grounds housed the port authorities, prisons and storage-rooms. When Heraklion came under Turkish Occupation, mosques were built in the yard and the castle was renamed "Koule". Today, one can see a large part of the building, part of a mosque, signs of Morozini and the lions of St Marcus, symbols of the Venetian Rule. From the Castle, the view of the city and the port is impressive.
Monday: closed
Tuesday-Sunday: 08.00- 17.00
Accessibility: Full access
Condition: Intact
Admission Charge?: yes
Website: [Web Link]
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