must-visit in IrákleioSquare & Landmark

Lion Square

📍 Plateia Eleftherias, Heraklion, Crete, Greece

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4.4/ 5.0

★★★★☆

Quick Facts

Location: Greece, Irákleio
Category: Square & Landmark
Duration: 1-2 hours
Address: Plateia Eleftherias, Heraklion, Crete, Greece
Coordinates: 35.3378, 25.1363

Introduction

Officially Plateia Eleftheriou Venizelou, Lions Square is the heart of Heraklion's old town and a legacy of the Venetian period. The Morosini Fountain at its centre was built in 1628 under Doge Francesco Morosini: four stone lions support the basin and spout water, which is why locals call it the Lion Fountain. Cafés, shops and the Basilica of St Mark line the square, and the Archaeological Museum and harbour are within walking distance. A lively local gathering place, it suits a short stop to watch city life.

✨ Highlights

Morosini Fountain

The 1628 Venetian fountain with four stone lions holding the basin is the square's unmistakable landmark.

Old Town Hub

Ringed by cafés and shops, the square is where locals and visitors pause to watch everyday city life.

Venetian Legacy

The fountain and nearby Basilica of St Mark recall the Venetian era and Heraklion's layered past.

Walkable Base

The Archaeological Museum, old harbour and shopping streets are all within walking distance, a good starting point.

🛈 Practical Info

→Suggested Time：About 1 hour, best combined with the nearby museum and old harbour

→Best Time：Evening, when the fountain is lit and the square feels most lively

→What to Bring：Wear comfortable walking shoes, as the old town is largely cobbled

→Etiquette：The fountain is a historic monument; do not climb the basin or throw objects into the water

→Transportation：In the old-town pedestrian zone, a 10-minute walk from the port or bus station

💡 Tips

• Cafés on the square are pricey; a few steps down side streets often lead to cheaper local tavernas.

• The fountain water is drinkable and locals fill up here, so bring a bottle.

• Evenings and weekends get crowded, so keep an eye on your belongings.

• The Archaeological Museum is a short walk away, so no transport is needed.

FAQ

Any practical tips for visiting Lion Square?

Cafés on the square are pricey; a few steps down side streets often lead to cheaper local tavernas. The fountain water is drinkable and locals fill up here, so bring a bottle.