Heraklion (Crete) - the birthplace of the Minotaur

Millions of tourists visit Greek resorts every year, and very often the first city to which they fall is Heraklion. Crete is the island most popular with travelers. Popularity is promoted by picturesque nature, favorable climatic conditions, because the sun shines here almost all year round. Considerable role is played also by the mysterious ancient history, because many want to open the veil of secrets, to feel like a hero of myths and legends.

Initially, in honor of Heracles was named the city of Heraklion. Crete at different times was under the control of different peoples. In the VII century, the city was captured by the Saracens and renamed it Rabd al-Kandak, which in translation means "a serrt trench". The Arabs made him the capital of the island. In the IX century the city passed into the hands of the Byzantines, they plundered it, took out all the riches. For this they needed about 300 ships. In 1210, Heraklion was conquered by the Venetians, and from this period began its heyday. At that time, the greatest number of works and monuments of architecture was created, and culture developed.

Today, not just the capital of the island, and the cultural and tourist center was Heraklion. Crete annually hosts hundreds of thousands of tourists who want to touch the history of ancient civilization, get acquainted with its cultural heritage. The island is covered with myths and legends, every structure found by archeologists artifact conceals a mystery in itself.

A few kilometers from Heraklion, Knossos Palace is located, the researchers managed to restore part of its corridors, cellars, halls. This building resembles a labyrinth, it lacks any symmetry. To move on it, people needed to thoroughly study the building. Therefore, the myth of the Minotaur was invented . After visiting here, you can imagine the monster, the hero of Theseus and the thread of Ariadne.

At one time, many foreign archaeologists traveled for interesting and unique artifacts to Heraklion. Crete hides the innumerable riches of many civilizations buried in the earth. Archaeologists have tried to take all the things found in the excavations by the truth and falsity from the country, but the city authorities in every possible way prevented it. As a result, a beautiful Archaeological Museum with a rich exposition appeared in Heraklion. Here you can see the finds of the Minoan period, frescoes, objects of everyday life, ceramics, statues, weapons.

The historical museum will acquaint visitors with the way the island of Crete lived in different epochs. Heraklion attractions has mainly architectural and cultural. For example, in the museum you can see works of art, historical documents, works of famous icon painters, including El Greco. Delight and surprise cause the fortress of Martinengo and Kules, cathedrals, churches, narrow streets, Venetian fountains.

Nobody will go home without gifts, in the city there is an abundance of both small shops and chic shops, a variety of goods amazes the market quarter resembling the eastern bazaars. All tourists who want to have a great rest, enjoy the view of the wonderful nature and learn something new about the ancient times, should be sent to the address: Greece, Crete, Heraklion. Hotels here are for every taste and budget, tourists can stay at Galaxy, Atrium, Kronose, Castro, Agapi Beach, etc. The time spent on the island will be remembered for a long time.