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The region of Heraklion is located in the central Crete and the capital of the region, the city Iraklion is the fifth largest one in Greece. The region is among the busiest areas in trading and tourism as some of the most important sights are situated here. There are several hotels and many types of accommodation to choose, along with restaurants serving exquisite local Cretan cuisine.
Within the boundaries of Irakleion region are a number of archaeological sites of major significance, most known the Minoan palaces of Knossos, Phaistos and the cities of Gortys and Tylissos. After the volcanic eruption of Santorini, tremendous waves wiped out the Minoan Civilization. The Arabs who ruled Crete from AD 824 to AD 961 were the first to govern the site of modern Iraklio, known then as El Khandak. Heraklion is named Candia by the Venetians who ruled Crete for more than 400 years.
Heraklion is a region situated in the central Crete and its neighbouring regions are Rethymnon on the west and Lasithi on the east. The region spans an area of 2.641 sq. km. and a total population of 302.846 inhabitants. The capital city of the region is Heraklion.The region has modern tourist facilities, luxury hotels, apartments and camping and it is visited by a large number of visitors every year. Chersonisos it has become one of the most popular and cosmopolitan resorts of Iraklio with many beautiful beaches. Malia is also a cosmopolitan tourist area with tourist development. Malia beach is sandy and ideal for water sports. The area is known for its nightlife. Iraklio’s major attractions are the Minoan sites of Knossos, Malia and Phaestos. Other popular beaches are also: Matala, Agia Galini, Bali, Dytikos, Panormos and Kaloi Limenes. It is worth visiting the outstanding archaeological museum in Heraklion city and the Natural History Museum, and Cretaquarium the aquarium of Crete. For nature lovers a visit to the Diktian Cave is a must. According to mythology Diktian Cave is considered to be the birthplace of the mightiest Olympian god, Zeus and is located on Mount Idi, also known as Mount Psiloritis, Crete's highest mountain. -
Map for Heraklion
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