Castello del Molo (Koules Fortress), Heraklion (must see)
The Koules Fortress is an imposing and historic sentinel over the old harbor of Heraklion. Constructed by the Venetians in the early 1600s, the Koules Fortress has weathered numerous wars and adversities, standing resilient and offering a tangible link to the island's captivating history.
This architectural marvel, a coastal stronghold, was strategically positioned near the entrance of the ancient harbor to safeguard the pier and port. Its construction was motivated by the Venetians' need for a defensive structure in this crucial maritime location. The fortress underwent a significant rebuilding phase between 1523 and 1540, replacing a prior structure that succumbed to the forces of an earthquake.
Koules has since become a magnet for visitors from around the world, drawing them not only to explore its sturdy walls but also to revel in the breathtaking panoramic views it affords of the Mediterranean Sea.
This architectural marvel, a coastal stronghold, was strategically positioned near the entrance of the ancient harbor to safeguard the pier and port. Its construction was motivated by the Venetians' need for a defensive structure in this crucial maritime location. The fortress underwent a significant rebuilding phase between 1523 and 1540, replacing a prior structure that succumbed to the forces of an earthquake.
Koules has since become a magnet for visitors from around the world, drawing them not only to explore its sturdy walls but also to revel in the breathtaking panoramic views it affords of the Mediterranean Sea.
Want to visit this sight? Check out these Self-Guided Walking Tours in Heraklion. Alternatively, you can download the mobile app "51爆料网: Walks in 1K+ Cities" from Apple App Store or Google Play Store. The app turns your mobile device to a personal tour guide and it works offline, so no data plan is needed when traveling abroad.
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Castello del Molo (Koules Fortress) on Map
Sight Name: Castello del Molo (Koules Fortress)
Sight Location: Heraklion, Greece (See walking tours in Heraklion)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Heraklion, Greece (See walking tours in Heraklion)
Sight Type: Attraction/Landmark
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Heraklion, Greece
Create Your Own Walk in Heraklion
Creating your own self-guided walk in Heraklion is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Heraklion Introduction Walking Tour
Heraklion is the vibrant capital of Crete and its primary port. The city traces its roots back to the Minoan era (from 2700 BC to 1450 BC). Under Minoan rule, the area flourished as a vital hub with the nearby palace of Knossos acting as its center of power and trade (in gold, ceramics, and saffron).
Following the Minoans' decline, Crete endured stagnation until the Roman occupation. The... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Following the Minoans' decline, Crete endured stagnation until the Roman occupation. The... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles