If you visit the city of Heraklion, you must see this important tourist attraction. It's easy to get there—the fortress is located right in the city's old port, at the end of the pedestrian street, in an area full of bars, restaurants, and souvenir shops. The entrance fee is affordable, and the view is splendid, especially at sunset or when the wind blows from the sea, creating big waves that break against the pier. Many tourists rush to the terrace to take photos and overlook the museum inside the fort. This is unfortunate, as the exhibits, including old objects, maps of the old city, and miniatures of ancient ships, are very interesting.

On the western pier of Heraklion harbour is esconced a formidable Venetian fortress with the today name Koules. During Venetian rule it was known as Ricca a mare or Castello a mare, meaning fort of the seas. The name that finally prevailed is “Koules” from the Turkish name “Su kulesi”but was built by the Venetians. In the first years of Venetian rule it served to protect the harbour and city which was of great strategic importance in the region. The initial edifice was low, got destroyed by earthquake in 1303 and repaired. In the beginning of the 16th century within the framework of a general planning of the fortifications of the city the old fort was pulled down and a new one built in its place-this is what remains until today. It was built during the period 1523-1540 as per the inscription on the northern wall. This fort is in the shape of a square. The structure of which consists of strong thick walls. The width of the three sides of the exterior walls at ground level are up to 8.70m thick and the other side 6.9m thick! The interior walls have different thicknesses at various points, ranging from 1.36m to 3.00m. The roof of the ground floor is vaulted where large air vents and light wells have been constructed leading up to the dome. The gate entrance to the fort is at the edge of the western pier and was heavily protected: three strong wooden doors were on the vaulted roof and a ramp ran down steeply. This led to the inner fort. In 1630 there were 18 cannons on the ground floor and running up an enclosed pathway to the roof were another 25 cannons. This pathway was specifically used for dragging the cannons up and down the roof. Absolutely stunning

This place was on my bucket list. It didn't disappoint. I was more than impressed, the entry fee was a mere €4 more than worth it. Great history lesson in the changing times and rulers of Crete and especially the Heraklion port. The views from the top are amazing. Not to give anything much away except to say it is well worth the visit. You will be transported back to the Venetian times when the fortress was built on the site of an Arabian tower. The siege of Candia (original name for Heraklion) gave victory to the Ottoman's and all of this history is well documented and artifacts displayed. I think this place is a hidden gem on the tourist route, despite sticking out like a vast sore thumb on the edge of the city.

Great fortress at the Venetian port. Looks like a massive block of stone from the outside and is not to be overlooked. Inside, it was a bit disappointing at first. Very thick walls and vaults in a single-storey fortress closed at the top, with few openings as shooting frames and without courtyard. The castle is almost empty and only looks through its massiveness. Depressing. Towards the end of the circular route there is then the possibility to reach the platform on the castle. Here you have a fascinating view of the harbour and the sea. A great contrast to the lower floor and a nice conclusion to the castle visit.

Visiting the Koules Fortress in Heraklion was an unforgettable experience! The fortress is incredibly well-preserved and offers a fascinating glimpse into the history of the region. As you walk through the thick stone walls, you can imagine what life must have been like for the Venetians who built it. The views from the top are absolutely breathtaking, giving you a panoramic look at the harbor, the city, and the surrounding coastline. It’s a perfect spot for photography and enjoying the beautiful scenery.

The visit is quite quick but worth it. There are several rooms on the ground floor, photos of the time, cannonballs, amphorae... and you can also go upstairs to enjoy the view. The fortress is in good condition, the stones are beautiful.

This was an excellent little defensive facility for the harbor. The place obviously had some work done over over years so it’s not 100% original but very beautifully designed facility. There is a cafeteria restrooms but it’s not always open. Cost four euros to enter. they have some artifacts, you can easily spend an hour or two here.

Reasonably cheap to visit as a family so a nice find. The inside was stunning and very clean. On the roof top you have beautiful views of the harbour and Heraklion. The cafe was a tad expensive. Certainly worth a visit if in Heraklion.

Experiencing the fortress during a thunderstorm and rain made everything even more authentic. The view all around was magnificent. The only small criticism is that everything is described in English, code in other languages via the app would be great.

Impressive Venetian Fortress in the harbour of Heraklion at the edge of the harbour! A crowd of locals and tourists take a ride where there is usually a cool air! The night is bright. Many restaurants around but the center accessible in ten miles on foot.