Bembo fountain, Crete Travel Guide

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A historic Venetian fountain in Heraklion's Kornarou Square, offering a tranquil escape with Renaissance and Gothic artistry.

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Bembo fountain

The Bembo Fountain, gracing Kornarou Square in Heraklion, Crete, stands as a testament to Venetian engineering and artistry. Built between 1552 and 1554 by Gianmatteo Bembo, it was the first fountain to supply the city with running water. Adorned with Renaissance and Gothic elements, it features a headless Roman statue and offers a tranquil oasis amidst the bustling city.

A brief summary to Bembo fountain

Pl. Kornarou 2, Heraklion, 712 01, GR

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Bembo fountain.

Visit in the morning or late afternoon to avoid midday crowds and enjoy a more peaceful experience.
Take a moment to appreciate the blend of Renaissance and Gothic architectural styles.
Enjoy a coffee at one of the cafes surrounding the square for a relaxing break.

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Explore Bembo fountain on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Bembo fountain, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, walk southwest along Xanthoudidou Street, then turn left onto Evans Street. Continue onto Pl. Kornarou. The Bembo Fountain will be visible in the center of the square. The walk is approximately 5 minutes. There are no costs involved.
Public Transport

From Heraklion Airport, take the Bus Line 10 or 12 to Heraklion city center. Get off at the bus stop 'Plateia Kornarou'. The Bembo Fountain is located in Kornarou Square, right next to the bus stop. The bus fare is approximately €1.20.
Taxi

From Heraklion Port, a taxi to Bembo Fountain in Kornarou Square typically costs between €10-€15 and takes around 5-10 minutes, depending on traffic. Taxis are readily available at the port. Ensure the driver is using the meter or agree on a fare beforehand.

Discover more about Bembo fountain

Located in the heart of Heraklion's Kornarou Square, the Bembo Fountain is a historical landmark that whispers tales of Venetian rule. Constructed between 1552 and 1554 under the guidance of Capitano Gianmatteo Bembo, this fountain marked a significant advancement in the city's infrastructure as the first to provide running water to the inhabitants of Candia, the former name of Heraklion.The fountain's design showcases a blend of Renaissance and Gothic styles, evident in its intricate carvings and overall structure. The white marble gleams in the Cretan sun, drawing the eye to the various coats of arms and decorative elements that adorn its surface. A Roman sarcophagus serves as the fountain's basin, topped by a headless Roman statue brought from Ierapetra, adding an intriguing layer to its history.Over the centuries, the Bembo Fountain has been a silent witness to the city's transformations, from Venetian rule to Ottoman occupation and modern times. Today, Kornarou Square is a vibrant hub where locals and tourists alike gather to relax and enjoy the ambiance. Cafés surround the fountain, offering a perfect spot to savor a coffee while admiring this enduring monument. The gentle sound of flowing water creates a serene atmosphere, making it a welcome respite from the lively city streets.