Heraklion County has many sights worth visiting.
You must definitely see the archaeological site at Knossos, the
most famous city of the Minoan Civilisation.
Don't forget that the most beautiful collection of Minoan findings
in the world is kept in the Heraklion archaeological museum. The
quality, the archaeological and cultural value of the exhibits
is such that it will leave unprepared visitors literally speechless.
You should also see the remains of Gortyna, which was particularly
developed in Roman times. Here, you will find the Preatorio and
the Nympheo, the temple of Pythios Apollo, the Egyptian deities'
temple and the odeon, where the famous epigraph or queen of epigraphs
was found, with the laws of Gortyna written from right to left
(5th century BC). Not far from Gortyna, you will also find the
remains of Phestos, which have not been re-erected as in Knossos.
The famous and mysterious clay disk of Phestos was found here,
whose interpretation is still a 'headache' for archaeologists.
The disk, together with other important findings, is exhibited
in the Heraklion archaeological museum and admired by every visitor.
You can also visit the Malia archaeological site on the northern
coast, with its palace that is considered as important as those
of Phestos and Knossos.
One of the main characteristics of this county and Crete in general,
is the constant alternation, continuity and blending of civilisations.
Thus, there are Byzantine churches and monasteries with significant
wall paintings everywhere. There are also Byzantine and Venetian
fortresses, springs and fountains.
The villages and monasteries have been involved in many battles
for independence, and this becomes apparent from the monuments
to those who died fighting against the invaders of Crete.
You should also explore the most important sight from the period
of Venetian rule on the island, the fortifications of Heraklion
city. The majority of the fortifications have now been re-erected,
and are among the most important of their kind in the Mediterranean.
Their value as venues for entertainment, artistic expression and
creativity is being recognised increasingly.
Therefore, if you visit Heraklion in August, do not forget to ask
for a schedule of the cultural events organised in the city wall
chambers.
