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Irakleio’s Archaeological Museum is one of the finest in Greece, with finds from ancient Minoan, Greek and Roman cities (see Irakleio, Irakleio Archaeological Museum).

The massive walls of the square fortress – the most imposing historic building in Irakleio – were strengthened by the Venetians as the Turkish threat grew during the 16th century.

The great wooden war-galleys that gave Venice its maritime supremacy were built and repaired in vaulted arcades on the harbourfront opposite the fortress. Wooden fishing boats are still hauled up here for maintenance.

The museum’s proudest possession is the only painting by El Greco to have been retained in the artist’s native Crete. There are also some lovely stone pieces (see Historical Museum).

Carved stone lions, the symbol of St Mark, decorate a small fountain in the hub of Irakleio’s old quarter. It is named after a great 17th-century Doge of Venice. Sadly, it is often dry.

The old market has striped awnings and counters piled high with everything from live snails to a myriad varieties of olive .

The world’s finest collection of Cretan icons is displayed in a pretty 15thcentury church. Colourful, glowing depictions of saints and martyrs,some of them in elaborate silver frames, adorn the walls. There are three works by Michailis Damaskinos: the Adoration of the Magi, Last Supper , and Christ Appearing to the Holy Women .

Offers an impression of the Cretan landscape in Minoan times, before the importation of palm trees, eucalyptus and bougainvillea. There are also stuffed animals, fossils and crystals.

This small collection highlights the German invasion of 1941 and the Cretan resistance to German occupation from 1941–45. There are photographs, documents, weapons and uniforms.

Irakleio’s Venetian walls are surprisingly intact, though among a concrete tide of modern buildings. The best place to appreciate the fortifications is from outside the Chania Gate, with its elaborate carving. Next to it is the massive Pantokratoros Bastion.