Heraklion: A Gateway to Crete's Rich History and Vibrant Culture

• HelloΓεια σας
  [Yah sas]
• GoodbyeΑντίο
  [Adio]
• YesΝαι
  [Ne]
• NoΌχι
  [Ochi]
• Please/You're welcomeΠαρακαλώ
  [Parakalo]
• Thank youΕυχαριστώ
  [Efharisto]
• Excuse me/SorryΣυγγνώμη
  [Signomi]
• How are you?Πώς είσαι;
  [Pos ise;]
• Fine. And you?Καλά. Εσύ;
  [Kala. Esi;]
• Do you speak English?Μιλάτε Αγγλικά;
  [Milate Agglika;]
• 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 menou, parakalo]
• I don't eat meatΔεν τρώω κρέας
  [Den troo kreas]
• Cheers!ΥΓΕΙΑ!
  [Yia]
• I would like to pay, pleaseΘα ήθελα να πληρώσω, παρακαλώ
  [Tha ithela na plirosso, parakalo]

• Help!Βοήθεια!
  [Voithia!]
• Go away!Φύγε!
  [Fige!]
• Call the Police!Καλέστε την Αστυνομία!
  [Kaleste tin Astinomia!]
• Call a doctor!Καλέστε ένα γιατρό!
  [Kaleste ena giatro!]
• I'm lostΈχω χαθεί
  [Eho hathi]
• I'm illΕίμαι άρρωστος
  [Eimai 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 μειώσετε την τιμή;
  [Borite na meioste 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 (dekka)]
• MorningΠρωί
  [Proi]
• AfternoonΑπόγευμα
  [Apoyefma]
• EveningΒράδυ
  [Vradi]
• YesterdayΧθες
  [Hthes]
• TodayΣήμερα
  [Simera]
• TomorrowΑύριο
  [Avrio]
• 1Ένα
  [Ena]
• 2Δύο
  [Dio]
• 3Τρία
  [Tria]
• 4Τέσσερα
  [Tessera]
• 5Πέντε
  [Pente]
• 6Έξι
  [Exi]
• 7Εφτά
  [Efta]
• 8Οχτώ
  [Ochto]
• 9Εννιά
  [Ennia]
• 10Δέκα
  [Deka]

• Where's a/the...?Πού είναι ένας/η...;
  [Pou ine enas/i...;]
• What's the address?Ποια είναι η διεύθυνση;
  [Pia 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 is most famously associated with the Minoan civilization, which thrived from approximately 2700 to 1450 BCE. The nearby palace of Knossos, believed to be Europe's oldest city, serves as a significant archaeological site. Excavations led by Sir Arthur Evans in the early 20th century revealed a complex of grand structures, frescoes, and artifacts that provide a glimpse into Minoan life. The legend of the Minotaur and the Labyrinth is also linked to Knossos, adding a mythological dimension to its historical importance.

Following the decline of the Minoans, the region that would become Heraklion saw the rise of various Greek city-states. During the Classical and Hellenistic periods, from around the 5th to the 1st century BCE, the area was influenced by the broader cultural and political developments of ancient Greece. Although less prominent than other Greek cities, Heraklion’s strategic location on Crete made it an important hub for trade and military activities.

Heraklion came under Roman control in 67 BCE and subsequently became part of the Byzantine Empire. The city, known as Heracleum during Roman times, continued to serve as an important port and administrative center. The Byzantine period, lasting until the 9th century, saw the construction of early Christian basilicas and other religious structures, many of which have left their mark on the city's architectural landscape.

In the early 9th century, Heraklion was conquered by Arab forces who renamed the city Chandax (or Khandaq). The Arabs fortified the city with robust walls and a deep moat, transforming it into a significant center of trade and piracy. This period lasted until 961 CE, when Byzantine forces recaptured the city under the leadership of Nikephoros Phokas. The Arab influence is still evident in the city's layout and some architectural remnants.

The Venetians took control of Heraklion in 1204, renaming it Candia. This period marked a time of significant growth and architectural development. The Venetians constructed the massive Fortress of Koules at the entrance to the harbor, along with other fortifications and public buildings. The period also saw the flourishing of arts and culture, with the city becoming a hub for the Cretan Renaissance. The influence of Venetian architecture can still be seen in Heraklion’s old town.

Heraklion fell to the Ottoman Empire in 1669 after a prolonged siege that lasted more than 20 years, one of the longest in history. Under Ottoman rule, the city experienced significant demographic and cultural changes. Many churches were converted into mosques, and the cityscape was altered to reflect Ottoman architectural styles. The Ottoman influence is still visible in various buildings and the city’s urban layout.

Heraklion was incorporated into the modern Greek state in 1913 following the Balkan Wars and the eventual collapse of Ottoman rule. The 20th century brought significant changes, including economic development, urban expansion, and modernization. Heraklion played a role in the resistance during World War II and has since developed into a vibrant city that balances its rich historical legacy with contemporary life.

Heraklion is the capital of Crete and is well-connected by air and sea. The Heraklion International Airport 'Nikos Kazantzakis' (HER) receives numerous domestic and international flights daily. Alternatively, you can arrive by ferry from Piraeus (Athens) or other Aegean islands at the Port of Heraklion, which is one of the busiest ports in Greece.

Heraklion offers various transportation options. The city center is compact and walkable. For longer distances, public buses operated by KTEL are reliable and cover most parts of the city and island. Taxis are readily available and relatively inexpensive. Car rentals are also a popular option, especially for exploring the island at your own pace. Biking is less common due to the hilly terrain and traffic, but some areas have bike rentals.

The official currency in Greece is the Euro (EUR). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants, and shops. ATMs are plentiful throughout Heraklion, but it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments or in more remote areas. Tipping is customary but not obligatory; rounding up the bill or leaving a small tip is appreciated.

Heraklion is generally a safe city for tourists. However, petty crimes like pickpocketing can occur, particularly in crowded areas such as the central market and bus stations. Avoid poorly lit areas at night and keep an eye on your belongings. Always use registered taxis and avoid accepting rides from strangers. The area around the old port can be sketchy at night, so exercise caution.

In case of an emergency, dial 112, the European emergency number, for immediate assistance. Heraklion has several hospitals and medical facilities, including the University Hospital of Heraklion. Pharmacies are widely available and usually open from early morning until late evening. It is advisable to carry your European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) if you are from an EU country, or have travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

Fashion: Do dress modestly when visiting religious sites; avoid overly revealing clothes. Religion: Do respect local customs; cover your shoulders and knees when entering churches and monasteries. Public Transport: Do validate your bus ticket upon boarding; don’t forget to carry small change. Greetings: Do greet with a handshake and say 'Kalimera' (Good morning) or 'Kalispera' (Good evening). Eating & Drinking: Do try local dishes like moussaka and souvlaki; don’t rush through meals as dining is a leisurely affair.

To experience Heraklion like a local, visit the central market on 1866 Street for fresh produce and local delicacies. Spend an evening at a traditional taverna to enjoy live music and Cretan cuisine. Don’t miss the opportunity to explore the nearby archaeological sites, including Knossos Palace. For a unique experience, take a walk along the Venetian Walls for panoramic views of the city.