Profitis Ilias, Heraklion Travel Guide

Explore Profitis Ilias: A Cretan village with a rich history, stunning fortress ruins, and breathtaking views.

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Profitis Ilias

Profitis Ilias, formerly known as Kanli Kastelli, is a historic village in Heraklion, Crete, located at the foot of Rokka hill. The village is known for its agricultural production and the remains of the Temenos Fortress, a significant Byzantine monument.

A brief summary to Profitis Ilias

Profitis Ilias, GR

From Eve

Know before you go

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

Wear comfortable shoes for exploring the Rokka hill and the fortress ruins.
Visit the local wineries to sample traditional Cretan wines.
Check the weather forecast before your visit, as the hilltop can be exposed to the elements.

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Explore Profitis Ilias on the Map

A handpicked selection of must-see spots near Profitis Ilias, mapped for you.

Getting There

Walking

From the center of Profitis Ilias village, follow the signs towards the Rokka hill. The path leading to the Temenos Fortress is a dirt road that ends at the beginning of a stone staircase. The walk uphill takes approximately 15-20 minutes. There are no entrance fees to access the site.
Public Transport

Buses from Heraklion to Profitis Ilias are available from Heraklion Central Bus Station. From the bus stop in Profitis Ilias, follow the main road through the village and then the signs to Rokka hill. The walk from the bus stop to the base of the hill is approximately 10 minutes. A single bus fare from Heraklion to Profitis Ilias costs around €3-€4.

Discover more about Profitis Ilias

Nestled at the northwestern foot of the Rokka hill, approximately 18 kilometers south of Heraklion, lies the village of Profitis Ilias. This historic location, once known as Kanli Kastelli, boasts a rich past, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the Rokka hill was home to the acropolis of the ancient city of Lykastos, mentioned in Homer's works.The area's strategic importance was recognized during the Byzantine era when Nikephoros Phokas, after reconquering Crete in 961 AD, built a formidable fortress on the Rokka hill, naming it Temenos. The Venetians further fortified the fortress, recognizing its strategic value and referring to it as "oppidum fortissimum". They undertook numerous repairs and improvements, granting it as a fief to prominent families.During the Ottoman occupation in 1669, the fortress was renamed "Kanli Kastelli," meaning "Bloody Fortress," a name that served as a grim reminder of a defeat suffered by the Ottomans at the hands of the Venetian Cretans in 1647. In 1955, the village was renamed Profitis Ilias, in honor of the church dedicated to the Prophet Elijah.Today, Profitis Ilias is a vibrant community known for its agricultural production, particularly grapes, raisins, olive oil, and wine. Visitors can explore the remains of the Temenos Fortress, offering panoramic views of the surrounding area, and experience the charm of a traditional Cretan village.