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Talos Square: A Bronze Guardian's Resting Place

Discover Talos Square in Chania: a vibrant hub where history, culture, and local charm converge in the heart of the Old Town.

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Talos Square, also known as 1821 Square, is a vibrant hub in Chania's Old Town, Crete, named after the mythical bronze giant Talos. It offers a mix of history, culture, and modern charm, serving as a meeting point for locals and tourists.

A brief summary to Talos Square

  • Theotokopoulou 63, Chania, 731 31, GR

Local tips

  • Visit during the spring or autumn for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
  • Enjoy a meal or drink at one of the many cafes and restaurants surrounding the square.
  • Check the local events calendar for festivals or concerts taking place in the square.
  • Explore nearby attractions such as the Venetian Harbor and the Archaeological Museum.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Chania's Old Town, walk towards the Venetian Harbor. Follow the waterfront promenade past the lighthouse. Turn left onto Theotokopoulou Street; Talos Square is a short walk down the street. No costs involved.

  • Public Transport

    From Chania's central bus station, take a local bus towards the city center. Ask the driver for the closest stop to Talos Square. Walk towards Theotokopoulou Street and follow it to the square. City buses cost €1.20-€2.50 depending on the zone and where you purchase the ticket.

  • Taxi

    From anywhere in Chania city, a taxi can take you directly to Talos Square. Taxi fares in Chania start at approximately €0.80 per kilometer. A short trip within the city center will likely cost between €6-€11.

  • Driving

    From the city center, follow signs towards the Old Town. Be aware that the Old Town is largely pedestrian-only, so parking is near the perimeter. Free street parking is available around Talos Square, but it's often full. There is a parking lot adjacent to Talos Square that accommodates approximately 40 vehicles. Parking TALOS at Partheniou Kleiadi costs €3.60 per two hours. Be mindful of resident-only parking zones.

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Discover more about Talos Square

Talos Square, or Plateia Talou, is a bustling public square nestled in the heart of Chania's historic Old Town. The square derives its name from Talos, the mythical bronze automaton created by Hephaestus to protect Crete. According to legend, Talos patrolled the island, defending it from pirates and invaders. Throughout history, Talos Square has been a focal point of Chania. During the Venetian era, it thrived as a marketplace. Later, under Ottoman rule, a mosque and fountain were erected, though these were eventually demolished during the Greek War of Independence. In the 19th century, the square became a symbol of Greek nationalism, hosting protests against Ottoman rule. After Greece gained independence, it was renamed 1821 Square to commemorate the revolution. Today, Talos Square is a lively center, surrounded by cafes, tavernas, and shops. A monument and fountain stand in the square to commemorate the tragic maritime disaster of the SS Heraklion sinking. The architecture reflects Chania's diverse past, with Venetian-era buildings standing alongside modern structures. A statue of Eleftherios Venizelos, a key figure in Greek independence, stands as a reminder of Greece's fight for freedom. The square hosts cultural events, concerts, and festivals, especially during the summer.

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