Kornarou Square: A Crossroads of History and Culture

Kornarou Square, also known as Valide Tzami (Valide Mosque), is a historical landmark in the heart of Heraklion, Crete. The square is named after Vitsentzos Kornaros, a leading figure of the Cretan Renaissance and writer of the poem “Erotokritos”. This bustling square encapsulates the essence of Heraklion's rich history and serves as a vibrant meeting point for locals and tourists alike.During the Venetian rule, the monastery of San Salvatore stood where the square is today. Constructed in the late 13th century by the Augustinian friars, it was the only purely Gothic church in all of Crete. However, during the Turkish occupation, the monastery was converted into a mosque dedicated to Valide, the Sultan's mother, giving the square its alternative name. The building later served as a shelter for refugees and a school before being demolished in 1970.Today, Kornarou Square is adorned with the Bembo Fountain, a Venetian fountain built in 1588 that once supplied the city with spring water. Nearby stands an Ottoman sebil, a public fountain constructed in 1776 by Hadji Ibrahim Aga to provide fresh water to travelers. The square also features a bronze statue of Erotokritos on horseback, bidding farewell to his beloved Aretousa, commemorating Kornaros' famous poem.Surrounded by shops and cafes, Kornarou Square offers a place to relax and soak in the atmosphere. Its central location makes it a convenient starting point for exploring other nearby attractions, including museums and ancient ruins.