Nikos Kazantzakis Grave, Crete Travel Guide

4.6 (1835)

Visit the final resting place of Nikos Kazantzakis in Heraklion, a serene spot offering panoramic views and a tribute to the celebrated author.

Home
Travel Guides
Greece
Crete
Nikos Kazantzakis Grave

The grave of Nikos Kazantzakis, Crete's most celebrated 20th-century writer, rests on the Martinengo Bastion, part of Heraklion's Venetian walls. Overlooking the city, it's a place for reflection on his life and works, marked by his famous epitaph: 'I hope for nothing. I fear nothing. I am free'.

A brief summary to Nikos Kazantzakis Grave

Κρήτης, Heraklion, 714 09, GR

Monday 8 am-8 pm
Tuesday 8 am-8 pm
Wednesday 8 am-8 pm
Thursday 8 am-8 pm
Friday 8 am-8 pm
Saturday 8 am-8 pm
Sunday 8 am-8 pm

From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Nikos Kazantzakis Grave.

Wear comfortable shoes, as the approach to the Martinengo Bastion involves some walking, especially if coming from the city center.
Bring water, especially during the hot summer months, as there are limited facilities on the bastion.
Consider visiting early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the midday heat and crowds.
Take a moment to read some of Kazantzakis's works before visiting to fully appreciate the significance of the site.
Check local guides or official websites for the most up-to-date information on opening hours, though the site is generally accessible year-round.

Do you manage this location?

Take control to get all the benefits, like improved information, better appearance, and stronger visibility across AI-powered discovery. Learn more about listing your business on Evendo

Activate your presence

Other nearby places you may find interesting

The closest places of the same kind, if this one is not quite what you had in mind.

Venetian Shipyards / Vechi

View point Mount Karfi

Rocca a Mare Fortress

Caves Matala

Knossos Palace

Explore Nikos Kazantzakis Grave on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Nikos Kazantzakis Grave, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the Heraklion city center, the Grave of Nikos Kazantzakis is a walk of approximately 20 minutes. Head south towards the Venetian Walls. The tomb is located on the Martinengo Bastion, which is on the southwestern corner of the old city walls. Follow the signs directing you to the bastion. The walk involves a gradual incline as you ascend the walls.
Public Transport

The Heraklion Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour includes a stop at the Nikos Kazantzakis Grave. Check the bus schedule for timings and frequency. Alternatively, local buses run near the Venetian Walls; from there, it's a short walk to the Martinengo Bastion. A one-way ticket on a local bus within Heraklion typically costs around €1.20.
Taxi

A taxi from Heraklion city center to the Grave of Nikos Kazantzakis is a quick and convenient option. The ride takes approximately 3 minutes and costs between €3-€5. Taxis are readily available throughout the city center.

Discover more about Nikos Kazantzakis Grave

Nikos Kazantzakis (1883-1957), the renowned Cretan author of works like 'Zorba the Greek' and 'The Last Temptation of Christ,' is buried on the Martinengo Bastion of Heraklion's ancient Venetian walls. This location, chosen at his request, offers panoramic views of the city and the sea, symbolizing his enduring connection to his birthplace and his philosophy of freedom.Kazantzakis's life and writings were often controversial. He faced criticism from the Church for his exploration of existential and humanistic themes, even facing the threat of excommunication. As a result, he was denied burial in a traditional cemetery. Instead, he was laid to rest on this prominent bastion, a testament to his independent spirit.The grave itself is simple and austere, with a wooden cross and a plaque inscribed with his famous epitaph: 'I hope for nothing. I fear nothing. I am free'. Visitors can pay their respects, enjoy the tranquil atmosphere, and contemplate Kazantzakis's contributions to literature and philosophy. The site provides a serene escape and a chance to appreciate the legacy of this influential writer. His second wife, Eleni, is buried nearby.