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Kenouryia Porta: A Venetian Gateway to Heraklion's Past

Explore Kenouryia Porta, Heraklion's historic Venetian gateway, offering a glimpse into Crete's rich past and vibrant culture.

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Kenouryia Porta, or the New Gate, is a well-preserved 16th-century Venetian gate in Heraklion, Crete, serving as a reminder of the island's strategic importance during Venetian rule. Visitors can admire its stonework and explore the historically rich surrounding area.

A brief summary to Kenouryia Porta

  • Evans 12, Heraklion, 712 01, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and capture stunning photographs.
  • Take a leisurely stroll around the Porta to soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Heraklion.
  • Explore the surrounding streets for unique local shops and cafes offering authentic Cretan cuisine.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Koules Fortress, head east towards the sea. Once you reach the waterfront promenade, turn right and walk along the waterfront until you see Plateia Kornarou. Kenouryia Porta is located on Evans Street, a short walk from the square. Turn left onto Evans Street, and you will find Kenouryia Porta at number 12.

  • Public Transport

    From Heraklion Airport, take the airport bus to Heraklion Bus Station; buses leave every 15 minutes from 6:00 AM to 12:00 AM (midnight) and cost €2. From the bus station, you can take a local bus to Plateia Kornarou. Take bus number 1 or 5 towards the city center and get off at the stop named 'Evans'. From there, it's a short walk to Kenouryia Porta located at Evans 12. The bus fare is typically around €1.50-€2.00.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Heraklion. From Heraklion Airport to Kenouryia Porta, expect to pay around €10. Within the city center, a short taxi ride should cost around €4-€5. Note that the basic fare is €1.80-2.50 + €0.90 per kilometer.

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Discover more about Kenouryia Porta

Kenouryia Porta, also known as the New Gate or Gate of Jesus, stands as a striking testament to Heraklion's Venetian past. Constructed in 1587 on the south side of the Venetian Walls, the gate was a key entrance to the city, leading to the southern provinces of the region. The gate's design, attributed to Michele Sanmicheli, showcases Renaissance architecture with an imposing inner façade covered in carved stones arranged in vertical symmetry. Openings on either side of the central doorway once led to stairs, windows, and secondary entrances within the gate gallery, which housed weapons and guards. While the inner face boasts intricate details, the outer face was simpler, adorned with five coats of arms. Today, Kenouryia Porta is a popular tourist attraction, offering visitors a glimpse into Crete's rich cultural heritage. The surrounding area is filled with cafes and shops, inviting tourists to immerse themselves in the local atmosphere. Plaques provide insights into the monument's significance, and its location makes it an ideal starting point for exploring other nearby attractions.

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