Morosini Fountain

The main square is a lively place with lots of restaurants and shops around—perfect for a casual stroll or a meal. However, during our visit, the fountain wasn’t working, which was a bit disappointing. Still, the atmosphere and variety of places nearby made it worth the stop.

The fountain is nice. Beautiful carved frescoes all over. However, the fountain was never "on" in the 2.5 days I was there. At night, cockroaches come out of the cracks by the base. The fountain area is packed with tourists that give off a positive vibe and energy. Surrounded by restaurants all over the place and street shops hawking various wares. The fountain is at least 350 years old.

The vibrant social spot where, even if you don't speak the Greek [never late to try it], you can melt right into the local life. Coffee shops in Greece are a true social institution, the kind Starbucks can only envy. Take your "frapé", sit back, and soak up the lively animated conversation and joy of the locals while tracing the ever lasting attempts of foreign powers to leave their marks in Hiraklion.

Great central location in Heraklion, Cretes capital city. Lots going on here, squares to sit and people watch, cafes,bars and restaurants plus shopping. If you're after historical- lots to see too. If you're looking for smaller and more picturesque, go to Agios Niklaus.

A beautiful historic spot in the heart of Heraklion! The Liontaria Fountain, built by the Venetians in 1628, is full of charm and detail. The four lions, the flowing water, and the elegant carvings make it a perfect place to pause, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Still a lively meeting point for locals and visitors alike.

During our 10 days stay in Heraklion, we haven’t seen it work once. Any time of the day, morning, noon or late night. It was quite disappointing as it’s basically one of the top things to see in the city. Don’t get me wrong, it really does look beautiful but it could also gush the water out. Kinda bummer.

Morosini Fountain: A Historic Gem in Crete The Morosini Fountain is a captivating landmark in Crete, steeped in history and surrounded by a vibrant atmosphere. A Piece of History: World War I Stories: The fountain holds significant historical value, with fascinating stories from World War I linked to its past. A Bustling Hub: Vibrant Surroundings: The Morosini Fountain is surrounded by a lively neighborhood, bustling with cafes, bars, and people from all walks of life. A Must-Visit: If you're looking for a place to soak up the local atmosphere and learn about Crete's history, the Morosini Fountain is a must-visit. Its rich history and vibrant surroundings make it a captivating destination.

Also known as the Lions Fountain, is a prominent historical landmark situated in the heart of Heraklion, Crete. Commissioned in 1628 by the Venetian governor Francesco Morosini, the fountain was part of an ambitious project to supply the city with fresh water. An intricate 15-kilometer aqueduct system was constructed to channel water from the springs of Mount Juktas to the city center, addressing the chronic water shortages of the time . Architecturally, the fountain is a masterpiece of Venetian design. It features an eight-lobed basin adorned with reliefs depicting scenes from Greek mythology and marine life, including tritons and dolphins. At its center stand four marble lions, emblematic of Venetian power, from whose mouths water once flowed . Originally, a statue of the god Poseidon crowned the fountain, but it was destroyed, likely during the Ottoman occupation or by an earthquake. Over the centuries, the fountain has undergone various modifications. During the Ottoman period, it was adapted to serve the needs of the Muslim population, including the addition of marble columns and modifications for ritual washing. In the early 20th century, restoration efforts aimed to return the fountain to its original Venetian glory . Today, the Morosini Fountain remains a central gathering spot in Heraklion, surrounded by cafes, shops, and bustling city life. Its historical significance and architectural beauty make it a must-visit for anyone exploring the city.