Webcam Heraklion. Panorama
The city of Heraklion is the capital and one of the most popular cities of Crete as well as the administrative center of the region of the same name. The city was named after the ancient Greek hero Herakles, who performed one of his famous feats here: taming of the Cretan bull.
The modern city offers its visitors all conditions for a comfortable stay and a rich tourist route for lovers of archaeological monuments. Chic boutiques and restaurants, souvenir shops and bustling cafes with the aromas of local cuisine peacefully coexist here with the ruins of ancient palaces and the serenity of Byzantine churches.
The most popular historic structure in the city is the mythical palace of Knossos, designed by the famous architect Daedalus for King Minos. Legend has it that the palace was home to an intricate labyrinth inhabited by the mythical Minotaur monster who guarded the Golden Fleece.
Do not forget to visit the Heraklion History Museum. Here are collected various historical documents, artifacts, as well as many works of Cretan iconographers. Another important museum of the city and one of the best museums in Greece is the Archaeological Museum of Heraklion, where the treasures of the Minoan culture are collected.
In the city center be sure to walk along the waterfront to the lighthouse and take a photo near the "meeting place" of the locals - the lion fountain (Morozini Fountain) and do not miss the chance to admire the Venetian marble fountain Bembo in Kornarou Square - the oldest surviving fountain of the city.
It is worthy of note, that such a rich and full of myths and legends past coexists harmoniously with the natural beauty of Heraklion and its fast growing tourist industry. Here you'll find dozens of hotels, hundreds of bars and nightclubs, many restaurants and taverns.
By the way, it is believed that the cuisine in Crete is the most delicious. Especially popular among tourists are seafood. As for shopping, the city center is full of bright signs and advertisements - from expensive boutiques to youth brands. In addition, many stores have Russian-speaking staff - a trifle, but nice!
About 70 km from Heraklion are the ruins of the ancient city of Phaestos with the palace, founded by King Minos - also a place of pilgrimage for many tourists.
The city has an airport and a well-developed transport network, but most tourists prefer to rent cars.
The sandy beaches of Heraklion, its impeccably clean sea and always sunny weather make it one of the most visited resorts not only in Crete, but also in Greece.
