Also called Iraklion - Heraklion, Greece is the capital city and the main tourist centre of Crete. Founded by Arab Muslims in 824 AD, the city has an interesting historical background between Christendom and Islam. Moreover, it has been the hometown of some of Greece's most dominant souls, including the Nobel Prize Winner Odysseas Elytis.

The ruins of Knossos also lie nearby. Connected with rousing legends, here is the site of the most significant palace of the Minoan civilization. You may easily also make a trip to Thira, Rhodes, Egypt or Haifa on a ferry or boat leaving the Aghios Nikolaos, Heraklion's shipping port and ferry dock.

Heraklion is known for some of the most enchanting archeological museums in the world. The Venetian Fortress (Koules) of Iraklion is yet another tourist attraction. Destroyed by the great earthquake in 1303, the fortress was rebuilt between 1523 and 1540. During the Ottoman occupation, this fascinating fortress served as a prison in whose dungeons many a revolutionist perished.

The coastline of Heraklion is vast in variety and extent, so bathers have quite a few options in terms of places to swim in the warm, crystal clear Mediterranean waters. The North Coast beaches are mostly sandy. The Ammoudara Beach is in an area with lots of hotels and you might find it convenient to stay here. Water sports are also available in the majority of beaches of the North Coast.

On the other hand, the South Coast mostly plays home to pebbly beaches. The Matala Beach is one of the most popular since it was preferred by the hippies who lived in the caves of Matala in the 60s and 70s. Tertsa is a tiny village with another pebbly beach - and is a quaint little spot which appeals to most tourists.

Greece is renowned for its jewellery making designs and competitive prices, and you will love to both window shop and buy in Heraklion. The food is very good and there's an enlivening night scene as well. To cut a long story short, Heraklion has everything for the serious-minded individual looking for archeological finds, as well as something for the party animal. It's safe to say that Heraklion is a place like no other on earth!

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