Venetian Shipyards / Vechi, Heraklion Travel Guide

Located on the waterfront of Heraklion, the Venetian Shipyards (also known as 'Neoria' or 'tarsanades') stand as a testament to Crete's Venetian maritime heritage. Constructed by the Venetians in the 16th and 17th centuries, these shipyards were once a bustling hub for constructing and repairing ships, including galleons, for the Venetian fleet. Heraklion, then called Candia, served as the 'Venice of the East,' a vital naval station and trade center.The shipyards consisted of 19 structures divided into three complexes: Arsenali Antichi, Arsenali Vechi, and Arsenali Nuovi. These elongated buildings with vaulted roofs housed ships needing protection or repair. Today, only parts of the Vechi and Nuovi arsenals remain. Some of the shipyards were destroyed in the early 20th century to make way for a seaside road.Visitors can still admire the architecture and imagine the shipwrights at work. Nearby, remnants of a salt storage room and a water tank (capacity 20,000 barrels) can be seen. The shipyards are undergoing restoration for future cultural events and exhibitions. Though currently undergoing renovations which may limit accessibility, the allure of the Venetian Shipyards remains undeniable.