Basilica of St. Mark

Just a few steps from the Morosini Fountain, the Basilica of St. Mark is a striking 13th-century Venetian building that has evolved from a Catholic church to a mosque, and today, into a vibrant cultural center. The basilica’s arched windows and stone columns showcase fine Venetian Gothic architecture. While it no longer serves as a religious site, it’s open to the public as the Municipal Art Gallery of Heraklion, hosting rotating exhibits and cultural events. Entry is free, and the space inside feels calm and inspiring. The gallery often features works by modern Greek artists and offers a cool, quiet retreat from the busy streets outside. The basilica also hosts concerts, readings, and other performances—check the schedule if you’re visiting in summer. It’s a wonderful example of how historic buildings can be repurposed for the arts. Whether you're an art lover, architecture fan, or just someone looking to enjoy Heraklion beyond its tourist spots, the Basilica of St. Mark offers a meaningful and enriching experience. Don’t miss the ornate doorway—it makes for a great photo with a slice of history.

Basilica of St Mark is a beautiful building in the centre of Heraklion, which I believe is now mainly used as a venue for art exhibitions. We recently came across it while visiting the city and, although there’s no shortage of beautiful heritage sites around the area, it’s definitely worth a visit. The current exhibition (May2025- I believe the artist is Christos Bokoros) is absolutely fantastic and I’d highly recommend checking it out (and it’s free!)

There is a beautiful, small art instillation now that is free to enter!

It was very atmospheric, and the exhibition that was featured really suited the space. Loved it.

Great exhibition! Thanks for the opportunity to visit it for free.

I arrived while a lecture was in progress so I couldn't see much but it looked nice nevertheless

The Basilica of Saint Mark (Greek: Βασιλική του Αγίου Μάρκου, Italian: Basilica di San Marco), also known as Hagios Markos (Greek: Άγιος Μάρκος), is a former Roman Catholic church in the center of the city of Heraklion, Crete, in the Eleftheriou Venizelou Square. It was built during the Venetian rule of the island in 1239, primarily used by the local lords and officials of the island. After the Ottoman conquest of Crete in 1669, it was converted into a mosque with the name Defterdar Ahmet Pasha Mosque (Greek: Δεφτερδάρ Αχμέτ Πασά Τζαμί, Turkish: Defterdar Ahmet Paşa Camii), and remained so until 1915. The building was restored after 1956 and ever since functions as a public art gallery. It is one of the few Roman Catholic churches still standing in Cretan cities and towns. Architecturally-wise it is a three-aisled basilica church with an elevated central nave. It has a portico in its entrance in the western façade.

Very old Venetian basilica with Gothic and Renaissance architecture. Hosts good free art exhibits.