Rocca a Mare Fortress, Heraklion Travel Guide

The Rocca a Mare Fortress, or Koules, stands as a proud sentinel at the entrance to Heraklion's old Venetian harbor. This imposing structure, constructed by the Venetians between 1523 and 1540, has safeguarded the city from naval threats for centuries. Its strategic location and robust design made it a vital component of Heraklion's defenses.Originally, a Byzantine tower stood on this site in the 7th or 8th century, guarding against Saracen pirates. However, the Venetians, recognizing the need for a stronger fortification, demolished the old tower and began construction of the Rocca a Mare. The fortress was built atop a natural rocky outcrop, which the Venetians supplemented by sinking old galleons filled with rocks to expand the base. The name Koules is derived from the Turkish name Su Kulesi (fortress of water).The fortress is a two-story structure covering approximately 3,600 square meters. The ground floor, with its vaulted roof, houses 26 rooms that once served as storerooms for food and munitions, a meeting hall, and prison cells. The upper floor features a large courtyard surrounded by crenellations, offering stunning views of the harbor and the city.Inside the fortress, visitors can explore exhibits detailing its history and the role it played in defending Crete. You can also view findings from Jacques-Yves Cousteau's underwater expedition to the Dia islet. The fortress often hosts cultural events and exhibitions, adding to its allure as a vibrant tourist attraction.A prominent feature of the fortress is the winged Lion of Saint Mark, the symbol of Venice, which is displayed in marble compositions on the facades. These symbols served as a reminder of Venetian power and influence. During the Ottoman period, the fortress underwent repairs and modifications, including the addition of battlements, gun ports, and a small mosque. The Ottomans also used the fortress as a prison, holding Cretan revolutionaries within its walls.