Bembo fountain, Heraklion Travel Guide

4.4 (2648)

Discover the Bembo Fountain in Heraklion: a historic Venetian fountain offering a glimpse into the city's rich cultural heritage.

Home
Travel Guides
Greece
Heraklion
Bembo fountain

The Bembo Fountain, gracing Kornarou Square in Heraklion, Crete, is a historical landmark dating back to the 16th century. Built by the Venetian governor Gianmatteo Bembo between 1552 and 1554, it provided fresh spring water to the city via an aqueduct. Today, it stands as a testament to Venetian ingenuity and a beautiful reminder of Heraklion's layered past.

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 the fountain at night to see it illuminated, creating a magical atmosphere.
Take a moment to appreciate the blend of Renaissance and Gothic architectural elements in the fountain's design.
Enjoy a coffee or snack at one of the cafes surrounding Kornarou Square.
Look for the Turkish Sebil (charity fountain) next to the Bembo Fountain, showcasing the layered history of Heraklion.

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.

Statue of El Greco

Herakleion Unknown Soldier Statue

Saint Titus Herakleion Holy Orthodox Cathedral Church

Morosini Fountain

Rocca a Mare Fortress

Explore Bembo fountain on the Map

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

Getting There

Walking

From Heraklion city center, such as Eleftherias Square, walk east along 25th August Street, the main shopping street. Continue until you reach Kornarou Square, where the Bembo Fountain is located next to the Ottoman Sebil. The walk is approximately 5-10 minutes.
Public Transport

Several bus lines serve Kornarou Square from various points in Heraklion. Check local bus schedules for the most convenient route from your location. Bus numbers 1, 2, 4, 6, 7, 8, 10, 11, 12, 14, 15, 17, 18, 19, 23, 31 will drop you off at Kornarou Square. A single bus fare within the city is approximately €1.20.
Taxi

Taxis are readily available throughout Heraklion. A short taxi ride from the port or airport to Kornarou Square will typically cost between €10-€15, depending on traffic and the exact starting point. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Discover more about Bembo fountain

The Bembo Fountain, nestled in the heart of Heraklion's Kornarou Square, offers a glimpse into the city's Venetian past. Constructed between 1552 and 1554 by Gianmatteo Bembo, the then-governor, the fountain marked the first time running spring water was brought to the city. The water flowed from Mount Yiouthas via a newly constructed aqueduct, a marvel of engineering for its time.The fountain's design incorporates both Renaissance and Gothic elements. Look for the Venetian coats of arms and the intricate floral patterns decorating the spring. A headless Roman statue stands behind the spring, adding to the fountain's unique character; this statue was brought from Ierapetra to enhance the fountain's beauty. Originally, the fountain included a Roman sarcophagus as a water collection basin and a pediment, but these were later removed.During Venetian and Ottoman rule, the Bembo Fountain was vital for the inhabitants, and today the area surrounding the fountain provides a place for visitors to rest. The fountain is illuminated at night, creating a magical ambiance for evening visits. The square is surrounded by cafes and shops, making it an ideal spot to relax and soak in the city's atmosphere.