The most famous landmark of Heraklion is the Fountain of Morosini. It was erected in 1628 in honor of St. Mark. Now it is hard to imagine, but at that time the spring supplied drinking water to the whole city! The fountain is decorated with figures of lions, newts and dolphins. You can find the fountain near St. Mark's Basilica, in Venizelos Square.
The most famous attraction on Heraklion's map is the Archeological Museum, home to the world's finest collection of Minoan art. Highlights include the Goddess with Serpents, the Arkalohori Axe and the Phaistos Disk, as well as the Games with Bulls panel and the Prince with Lilies fresco. The museum is located in the city center, at Xanthoudidou 2, and a ticket costs 6 EUR.
Photos of this Heraklion landmark are in the description of the best hotels in the city center - we're talking about Old Port. It is located to the left of the modern port. There are many restaurants here, sitting on the open terraces where you can watch the ships in the harbor for hours.
Don't forget to note on the Heraklion sightseeing map the Cathedral of St. Mina - it is one of the largest churches in Greece and a prime example of Greco-Byzantine architecture. There have been many marvelous events in the history of this cathedral. For example, the locals will surely tell you how in 1941 an airplane bomb fell on the roof of the church, but did not explode!
On any map of Heraklion with sights, the City Market on 1886 Street (Central Market Heraklion) is marked. Here you can buy fresh fruit and vegetables, seafood and meat, souvenirs for all your friends and relatives, as well as silver jewelry made in the traditional Cretan style much cheaper than in neighboring stores.
The Loggia is one of the best examples of Venetian heritage in Heraklion. This elegant building with its open gallery is reminiscent of a palace in Venice. It used to house the town council and today exhibits a collection of paintings and antiquities.
A Heraklion sightseeing tour would not be complete without a description of Pantocrator's Gate (also called Chania Gate). It is the most beautiful and ancient part of the Venetian wall - the outside of the gate is decorated with images of Pantocrator Almighty (Jesus as Heavenly King) and a winged lion.
