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Why was the Koules fortress built on ships?
Back in 1523, when they decided to build a fortress, there was only a tiny piece of land. It was just big enough for a lighthouse. They needed to build a platform and found a very interesting way to do it. Old ships were filled with rocks and stones. Afterwards, the ships were intentionally sunk, over and over again, until a platform was created. Once the platform was created, they continued to sink ships around it until they formed a breakwater. This was done so that the Koules fortress would be protected from harsh waves.
What was the Koules fortress for?
Over the years Koules fortress served many purposes. With it’s twenty six apartments, it was the living quarters for military personnel. However they were not the only ones living here. It was also a prison.
After 1630 the fortress was armed with forty three cannons. Eighteen of them were on the ground floor and twenty five were lined along the pathway to the roof. For the most part, the cannons are no longer in place but you can still see some of them inside the Koules fortress. As well as an impressive amount of cannonballs.
Travel Secret!
I recommend going to see this site early in the morning or late afternoon. Just because the sun comes down strong during midday. You will have to walk quite a distance along the port before you get to Koules fortress. Keep in mind that there is no shade whatsoever until you enter the fort.
Tours are a great way to visit the sites in Crete. They will pick you up at your hotel and drive you to the site. There is a driver and a guide. As a bonus the guide will give you all sort of information about the history and culture. This tour will also take you to see the site of Knosos. Which is an absolute Must See in Heraklion, Greece.
Fun Facts
Koules means Fortress in Turkish.
During the Ottoman rule, Cretan heroes were imprisoned in the fortress and killed in the dungeons.
Some of the walls are up to 8.7m(28.5ft)thick.
Be sure to wear good walking shoes, a sun hat, sunscreen, sunglasses, comfortable clothes and a camera. It gets really hot in Greece, bring lots of water, in bottles or a good hydration pack!
Accommodations
There are accommodations all over Heraklion. You can book your hotel below. My link will search through all the online sites to find you the best prices. This site will earn a small commission on your purchase. By using the link below you are funding this site.
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