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Venetian Loggia: A Testament to Heraklion's Venetian Past

Explore the Venetian Loggia in Heraklion, a beautifully preserved monument showcasing the island's rich Venetian heritage and architectural elegance.

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The Venetian Loggia in Heraklion, Crete, is a stunning 17th-century building that once served as a meeting place for Venetian nobles. Today, it stands as a beautifully renovated monument and houses the Heraklion Town Hall.

A brief summary to Venetian Loggia

  • August Str 25, Heraklion, 712 02, GR

Local tips

  • Visit the Loggia during daylight hours to fully appreciate its architectural details and take memorable photos.
  • Combine your visit with a stroll along 25th of August Street, exploring other nearby landmarks such as the Morosini Lions Fountain and Agios Titos Church.
  • Check for local events or ceremonies that may grant access to the Loggia's interior.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Venetian Loggia is centrally located on 25th August Street, a short walk from most central Heraklion locations, including the Liontaria Square and St. Mark's Basilica. From Liontaria Square, walk down 25th August Street; the Loggia will be on your right.

  • Public Transport

    Heraklion's public transport network provides easy access to the Venetian Loggia. Several bus lines stop near Liontaria Square, a few minutes' walk from the Loggia. Purchase tickets (ranging from €1.20 to €2.00 depending on the zone and purchase location) from kiosks or on the bus (at a higher cost). From the bus stop, walk down 25th August Street.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Heraklion. A short taxi ride from Heraklion Airport to the Venetian Loggia typically costs between €20-€22. From the port, a taxi ride would be less. Ask the driver to take you to 25th August Street.

Unlock the Best of Venetian Loggia

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Discover more about Venetian Loggia

The Venetian Loggia, located on 25th of August Street in Heraklion, Crete, is a magnificent reminder of the island's Venetian past. Constructed between 1626 and 1628 by Francesco Morosini, it served as a gathering place for Venetian nobles to discuss economic, commercial, and political issues. The Loggia also functioned as a social club for the elite. Designed in the Palladian style, the Loggia is a two-story rectangular building featuring Doric columns on the ground floor and Ionic columns above. Its architecture is inspired by the Basilica Palladiana in Vicenza, showcasing the importance the Venetians placed on their Cretan cities. Over the centuries, the Loggia has faced a turbulent history. After the Ottoman conquest in 1669, it lost its original purpose and was used as the Crete Treasury. The building suffered damage over time, particularly from an earthquake in 1856. Following Crete's independence in 1898, the Loggia was taken over by the municipality of Heraklion. Restoration efforts began in 1915 but were interrupted by World War II. The Loggia received the Europa Nostra award in 1987 for its exemplary renovation. Today, the Loggia serves as the Heraklion Town Hall, with the first floor used for ceremonies and municipal council meetings. While the interior isn't always accessible to the public, the exterior remains a captivating sight, drawing visitors to admire its architecture and historical significance.

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