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| Heraklion Matala Beach |
Heraklion Prefecture is the largest of the four prefectures of Crete and is bounded to the Prefectures of Lassithi to the east and Rethymno to the west. It covers an area of 2,641 sq. kilometers (1,017 sq. miles) and is inhabited by some 300,000 people.
The capital city of Heraklion Prefecture is Heraklion City, Crete’s largest city and port. The soil is rich in the valleys of the central and northern parts of the prefecture; otherwise it is mountainous, with the mountains of Idi and Asterousia occupying its southern part and coast. Matala beach is the most well known of the few beaches on the south. The north coast, nevertheless, is lined with fantastic beaches, visited by thousands of people. Off the north coast, Ida islet is part of the prefecture.
The prefecture has a Mediterranean climate which can become rather hot in midsummer. The mountains, though, have much cooler weather during the summer, with winter temperatures dropping around the freezing point, and with eventual snowfall.
The main agricultural products of Heraklion are olives and olive oil, vegetables, tomatoes and wine. Peza Valley produces 70% of the wine production of the whole of Crete, which in turn is 20% of the total Greek wine production.
In Heraklion Prefecture, there are important archaeological sites to visit, among them being the three of the four Minoan Palaces found on Crete: Knossos, Phaestos and Malia.
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| Heraklio Phaestos Disk: Still a Mystery |
The Heraklion Archaelogical Museum was built between 1937 and 1940, designed by P Karantinos. The site had been occupied during the Venetian Period by an imposing Catholic monastery of St. Francis, which was destroyed by the earthquake of 1856. The Museum houses archaeological finds from all over Crete. Its most important exhibits are the treasures of the earliest European civilization, the Minoan, which can be admired here in all of its historical continuity.
The present display was organized between 1951 and 1964 by N. Platon and St. Alexiou, both Ephors of Antiquities. The order in which the exhibits are presented is based on the chronological development of the Minoan civilization, and reflects both the history of the excavations and the major discoveries made on Crete at the beginning of the century (Palaces at Knossos, Phaistos, Malia, etc.). The exhibition contains objects mainly from central and east Crete, covering 5500 years of Cretan History.
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| Heraklion Harbor |
http://www.windmillstravel.com/destination.php?id=53&type=city
Welcome to Heraklion!
The capital city of Crete more than lives up to its reputation as being one of the most attractive of the many cities of the Mediterranean! It can satisfy the wishes and demands of a diverse variety of visitors from all over the world, while still providing enjoyment and satisfaction to its permanent residents. It is certainly not a matter of coincidence that it has been the center of Crete for so many centuries, and continues to be so, thanks to an abundance of sightseeing attractions, its joyous way of life, and the legendary hospitality of the Cretan people.
For inquisitive visitors, it is important to note that, in Heraklion, there are to be found and admired the oldest monuments in Europe. It is here where the first roots of the most ancient civilization in Europe were planted, a testimony for Western civilization, as we know it. It is here in Heraklion that Zeus, the God of Hospitality, fell in love with Europe, a most beautiful princess, from whom and whence the Minoan Kings were born, along with those wise mythical figures who laid the foundations for and instituted the first civilized society on our Continent. An outstanding archaeological museum, and the magnificent excavations at Knossos will certainly testify to that fact.
However, modern-day Heraklion has a much wider range of attractions to offer than “just ruins.” The Heraklion market is the richest of its kind on Crete, and among the most varied of any in the Mediterranean region. Souvenirs, furs, jewelry and gold items, food products and clothing, just about anything that one could wish for or need are here in abundance, and at a wide range of prices. The famous Cretan products, such as olive oil, wine, raki, honey, and herbs are, of course, of special importance and a major attraction to visitors and residents alike. They all seem to appreciate the locally distilled raki, a strong alcoholic beverage that, because it lacks any additives, can only add to the drinker’s “kefi” (good mood) and high spirits, without the risk of a hangover the following morning.
A multitude of lodging is available, whatever your budget, from luxury hotels to simple two-star bed and breakfasts. There are also furnished rooms, hostels, and lovely self-catering possibilities. On our site, we feature a wide selection to choose from; and, whether in town or at the sea, there is something for everyone and every budget.
The capital city of Crete more than lives up to its reputation as being one of the most attractive of the many cities of the Mediterranean! It can satisfy the wishes and demands of a diverse variety of visitors from all over the world, while still providing enjoyment and satisfaction to its permanent residents. It is certainly not a matter of coincidence that it has been the center of Crete for so many centuries, and continues to be so, thanks to an abundance of sightseeing attractions, its joyous way of life, and the legendary hospitality of the Cretan people.
For inquisitive visitors, it is important to note that, in Heraklion, there are to be found and admired the oldest monuments in Europe. It is here where the first roots of the most ancient civilization in Europe were planted, a testimony for Western civilization, as we know it. It is here in Heraklion that Zeus, the God of Hospitality, fell in love with Europe, a most beautiful princess, from whom and whence the Minoan Kings were born, along with those wise mythical figures who laid the foundations for and instituted the first civilized society on our Continent. An outstanding archaeological museum, and the magnificent excavations at Knossos will certainly testify to that fact.
However, modern-day Heraklion has a much wider range of attractions to offer than “just ruins.” The Heraklion market is the richest of its kind on Crete, and among the most varied of any in the Mediterranean region. Souvenirs, furs, jewelry and gold items, food products and clothing, just about anything that one could wish for or need are here in abundance, and at a wide range of prices. The famous Cretan products, such as olive oil, wine, raki, honey, and herbs are, of course, of special importance and a major attraction to visitors and residents alike. They all seem to appreciate the locally distilled raki, a strong alcoholic beverage that, because it lacks any additives, can only add to the drinker’s “kefi” (good mood) and high spirits, without the risk of a hangover the following morning.
A multitude of lodging is available, whatever your budget, from luxury hotels to simple two-star bed and breakfasts. There are also furnished rooms, hostels, and lovely self-catering possibilities. On our site, we feature a wide selection to choose from; and, whether in town or at the sea, there is something for everyone and every budget.
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| Sharks in the Cretaquarium |
Aquis Zorbas Village 4-Star Hotels
Location: Crete (Island Complex) | Crete/Heraklion (Island) | Anissaras
A sprawling resort of 219 low-rise bungalows, this All-Inclusive hotel is situated amidst some of the most beautiful gardens on Crete. With green lawns, mature trees and shrubs and a magnificent array of colorful flowers, it truly does look like a village paradise!
A variety of accommodation is offered at this All-Inclusive resort, from double bungalows with garden or pool view to bungalows with private pool. Room amenities common to all accommodation include individually controlled air conditioning; free Wi-FI Internet access; satellite TV; direct-dial phone; mini fridge; hairdryer; safe box, and private bath. Suites and private pool bungalows include additional amenities, such as bathrobes and slippers, toiletries, coffee/tea making facilities, and DVD player.Among some of the many facilities offered by the hotel, featured are the outdoor freshwater swimming pool; indoor pool (heated during low season); a fitness room with Jacuzzi, sauna and hamam; a children's pool and club, tennis court, and numerous other activities and sports for both adults and children. There are animation programs day and evening for adults and children, as well.
The All-Inclusive buffet breakfast, lunch and dinner are served at the Ariadne main restaurant. There is an a la carte Olive Tree Mediterranean restaurant and the Poseidon pool bar and Bachus lobby bar.
On site is a souvenir shop and jewelry shop, and a Conference Center with capacity for 400 persons.
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| Aquis Zorbas Village |
Aloi Hotel 3-Star Hotels
Location: Crete (Island Complex) | Crete/Heraklion (Island) | Anissaras
This hotel/bungalow complex has a mix of 25 standard rooms and bungalows, with swimming pool and restaurant. First floor rooms have sea view, and ground floor rooms have beautiful garden view. Lovely landscaped gardens surround the complex and the swimming pool and terrace.
All rooms are very well equipped with private bath with shower, mini fridge, safe box, air conditioning, and balcony or terrace (certain amenities may be payable locally).
The hotel has a restaurant and a bar. The garden restaurant offers a sheltered outdoor area to enjoy its traditional cuisine, using many of its own locally grown vegetables. Beautiful landscaping surrounds both the restaurant and all of the grounds.
Small pets are permitted, on request.
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| Aloi Hotel |
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