Koules Venetian Fortress

The Fort was built by the Venetians in the early years of their rule in Candia, to better protect the city\'s harbor, which was of paramount strategic and commercial importance. The original building, which was low, was destroyed by an earthquake in 1303 and rebuilt.

In the early 16th century., As part of the overall redesign of the fortifications of the city, the old fort was demolished and in its place was built the fortress which still exists in the period from 1523 (date mentioned in an inscription above the north gate) to 1540. Massive blocks were moved from Fraskia and Dia. To storey fortress is in final form covering an area of about 3,600 sq.m.

The ground floor is divided by thick walls in 26 rooms that served as food stores and ammunition, as well as jail cells, in which many were tortured Cretan rebels. There is a bakery, a mill and a small church. On three sides they saw the sea port opening for guns that protected the harbor. In 1630 there were 18 cannons and 25 on the ground floor. A ramp that was used to transport guns led to the roof. In BA, W and N side exterior was built of marble reliefs of winged lion.