Heraklion: The Beating Heart of Crete

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Ya sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ohi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είστε;
  [Pos iste?]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσείς;
  [Kala. Esis?]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε αγγλικά;
  [Milate anglika?]
• I don't understandΔεν καταλαβαίνω
  [Den katalaveno]

• I'd like to see the menu, pleaseΘα ήθελα να δω το μενού, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na do to menu, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!Υγεία!
  [Ygeia!]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fyge!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε ένα γιατρό!
  [Kaleste ena giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hatei]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eime arrostos]

• I'd like to buy...Θα ήθελα να αγοράσω...
  [Tha ithela na agoraso...]
• I'm just lookingΑπλά κοιτάω
  [Apla kitao]
• How much is it?Πόσο κοστίζει;
  [Poso kostizi?]
• That's too expensiveΑυτό είναι πολύ ακριβό
  [Afto ine poli akribo]
• Can you lower the price?Μπορείτε να χαμηλώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na hamilosete tin timi?]

• What time is it?Τι ώρα είναι;
  [Ti ora ine?]
• It's one o'clockΕίναι μία ώρα
  [Ine mia ora]
• Half past (10)Μισή (10)
  [Misi (10)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apogevma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Aurio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οχτώ
  [Ohto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένα/το...;
  [Pou ine ena/to...?]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Poia ine i diefthinsi?]
• Can you show me (on the map)?Μπορείτε να μου δείξετε (στο χάρτη);
  [Borite na mou dixete (sto charti)?]
• When's the next (bus)?Πότε είναι το επόμενο (λεωφορείο);
  [Pote ine to epomeno (leoforeio)?]
• A ticket (to ....)Ένα εισιτήριο (προς ....)
  [Ena isitirio (pros ....)]

Heraklion, known as 'Herakleion' in antiquity, is closely linked to the Minoan civilization, one of the earliest advanced societies in Europe. The nearby archaeological site of Knossos, believed to be the palace of King Minos, showcases the sophisticated art, architecture, and culture of this Bronze Age civilization. The significance of Heraklion as a center of trade and culture continued as it flourished under Minoan rule.

From the 13th to the 17th century, Heraklion was a vital port city under Venetian rule. The Venetians fortified the city, constructing impressive walls and bastions that still stand today. This period saw a cultural renaissance, with the introduction of Venetian architecture, art, and governance, which shaped the city’s identity. The Loggia, a fine example of Venetian architecture, served as a social and administrative hub.

Following the fall of Heraklion to the Ottomans in 1669, the city underwent significant changes. The Ottomans left a lasting mark on the city's architecture and culture, introducing mosques and other public buildings. The historic Mosque of Kazantzakis, named after the famous Cretan author, is a testament to this era. While the Ottomans ruled, the city remained a crucial trade center in the Eastern Mediterranean.

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by Cretan revolts against Ottoman rule, with Heraklion playing a central role. The Cretan Revolt of 1897 led to international intervention and ultimately to the unification of Crete with Greece in 1913. This period was characterized by a strong sense of national identity and a revival of Cretan culture, reflected in the arts and literature.

In May 1941, Heraklion was a key site during the Battle of Crete, the first major airborne invasion in history. The city endured significant destruction and loss during the conflict. Post-war, Heraklion underwent reconstruction, and the historical scars of war have since contributed to its resilience and the rich narrative of its past.

Heraklion is well-connected to other neighborhoods in Crete. The main transportation hub is the central bus station (KTEL) where you can find regular intercity bus services to popular destinations such as Chania, Rethymno, and Agios Nikolaos. Additionally, Heraklion International Airport (HER) serves both domestic and international flights, making it easy to arrive directly by air.

Within Heraklion, public buses are an efficient way to navigate the city and surrounding areas. The local bus system is reliable and covers major attractions. Taxis are readily available but can be more expensive. Bicycles can be rented for a more leisurely exploration of the city, and walking is a great option for visiting nearby sites such as the Heraklion Archaeological Museum and the Venetian Harbor.

Heraklion is generally safe for tourists, but standard precautions are advisable. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep valuables secure. While violent crime is rare, petty theft can occur, especially in crowded places. Areas around busy markets may have higher instances of pickpocketing, so stay vigilant.

In case of emergencies, dial 112 for immediate assistance in Greece. The local police station and hospitals are available in Heraklion. It's advisable to have travel insurance that includes medical coverage. For minor health issues, local pharmacies can provide over-the-counter medications and advice.

Fashion: Do dress modestly, especially when visiting churches and monasteries. Don't wear beachwear away from the beach. Religion: Do respect local customs and traditions. When entering a church, cover your shoulders and legs. Public Transport: Do be courteous and offer your seat to elderly passengers. Don’t eat or drink on public transport. Greetings: Do greet locals with a friendly 'Kalimera' (Good morning). Don’t rush through greetings; take a moment to acknowledge people. Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like moussaka and dakos. Don't refuse food or drink offered by locals, as it’s considered impolite.

To experience Heraklion like a local, visit the central market (Agora) for fresh produce and local delicacies. Engage with shopkeepers and try traditional snacks. Explore off-the-beaten-path neighborhoods such as the old town or the suburbs for authentic dining experiences. Attend local festivals or events to immerse yourself in Cretan culture.