Ираклион. Фонтан Бембо.
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Bembo Fountain

4.4
·3k reviews·Iraklio, Greece

A 16th-century Venetian fountain in Heraklion's market, featuring historical stonework and coats of arms.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Daytime

To explore the market

CrowdMedium
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Ираклион. Фонтан Бембо.

Bembo Fountain

Best Time

Daytime

To explore the market

CrowdMedium
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A 16th-century Venetian fountain in Heraklion's market, featuring historical stonework and coats of arms.

4.4
(3k reviews)

"A historic piece worth a quick look, but manage expectations regarding its condition."

Vertical photo
TIP

Quick Photo Op

It's a historic fountain, good for a quick photo if you're in the market. :camerawithflash:

Combine with Market Visit

Best enjoyed as part of exploring the lively market square. :shopping_bags:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Fountain Itself

The Fountain Itself

Heraklion Market Square

A late medieval Venetian fountain, featuring a headless statue and Venetian coats of arms.

Market Square Atmosphere

Market Square Atmosphere

Around the fountain

Experience the local buzz with taverns and shops surrounding this historic spot.

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Planning Your Visit

A Quick Stop, Not a Destination

The Bembo Fountain is a historic piece, but reviews suggest it's more of a quick look than a major attraction. Manage expectations and combine it with exploring the surrounding market area for a better experience.

Manage Your Expectations

While historically significant, some visitors find the Bembo Fountain neglected and the surrounding area unappealing due to cleanliness issues. Consider it a brief cultural stop rather than a primary tourist draw.

Best Times

When
Daytime
Why
To explore the market
Crowd
Medium
When
Early Morning
Why
Fewer crowds, cleaner
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Here’s a secret spot for all the best views and photos of the Trevi Fountain in Rome! 🏛️⛲️ For more travel tips, upgrades, discounts, & more - make sure to follow me and fill out the link in my bio #traveltips #travelguide #trevifountain #rometravel #italy
@jetsetsoph_
140K likes • 1.9M views

Quick Photo Op

It's a historic fountain, good for a quick photo if you're in the market. :camerawithflash:

Combine with Market Visit

Best enjoyed as part of exploring the lively market square. :shopping_bags:

Did you know there’s a secret fountain beside the Trevi Fountain in Rome? 😮🇮🇹 #guidedtour #rome #tips #travel #traveltips #italy
@livtours
58.2K likes • 779.5K views
Crete Itinerary: 2 nights Heraklion - Knossos Palace - Venetian Port - Church of Agios Titos - Bembo Fountain - Agios Minos Cathedral (look up the backstory) 1 night Rethymno - main beach - Old Town - Venetian Fort 3 nights Chania - hire a car and explore the beaches, there’s so many - Old Venetian Port - Lighthouse - Old Town - Agia Triada Monastery, olive oil and wine tasting This i...
jordana.travels
156 likes • 2.4K views

Manage Cleanliness Expectations

Some reviews mention neglect and odor. Be prepared for less-than-ideal conditions. :warning:

In 1669 Venetian rule in Crete ended with military defeat at the hands of superior Ottoman forces, who occupied Crete for the next 250 or so years. Right in front of the Bembo fountain in Heraklion is a beautiful Ottoman sebil (water fountain) built in 1776 by Hadji Ibrahim Aga. Of a polygonal shape with arched windows, it is typical of what is sometimes referred to as ‘Ottoman Baroque’, with infl...
peterleechmuso
9 likes • 310 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Quick Photo Op

It's a historic fountain, good for a quick photo if you're in the market. :camerawithflash:

Combine with Market Visit

Best enjoyed as part of exploring the lively market square. :shopping_bags:

Manage Cleanliness Expectations

Some reviews mention neglect and odor. Be prepared for less-than-ideal conditions. :warning:

What Travellers Say

4.4
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

The Bembo Fountain is a historical Venetian landmark in Heraklion's market square, appreciated for its age and architectural details. However, many visitors note its neglected state and the surrounding area's cleanliness issues, leading to mixed feelings about its overall appeal as a primary tourist destination.

"It's a late medieval (Venetian) fountain that's worth a quick look but nothing really special. The figurine is interesting, possibly older than the fountain. Can be found at the top of the market."

Dave S

"Unfortunately, the Bembo Fountain turned out to be a huge disappointment. The place is very neglected and poorly maintained. The area around the fountain smells of urine, and it is very dirty and covered in bird droppings. It's sad to see such a historic site in such a state. It's definitely not worth visiting in its current state."

Lukasz Kowalski

"Beautiful place with lot of tourist local taverns."

Tomas Tichopad

What People Like

Historic Venetian architecture
Central market location
Free to visit

What People Dislike

Neglected condition
Cleanliness issues
Surrounding area odor

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Bembo Fountain is located in the heart of Heraklion, specifically at the top of the market square. It's easily accessible on foot if you're already exploring the city center. Taxis can drop you nearby, and it's a common stop for guided walking tours of Heraklion. Reddit

Parking in the immediate vicinity of the market square can be challenging due to its central location. It's advisable to use public parking lots a short walk away or consider public transport if available. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Bembo Fountain is a public monument located in the market square and is free to view. There are no admission fees. Reddit

As an outdoor public fountain, the Bembo Fountain is accessible at all hours. However, the surrounding market and shops have their own operating times. Reddit

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The fountain itself is a late medieval Venetian structure adorned with a headless statue and Venetian coats of arms. It's a historical artifact from the Venetian period in Crete. Reddit

Reviews are mixed. While it's a historic site, some visitors report it being neglected, dirty, and sometimes smelling of urine. Others find the location beautiful with local taverns. Reddit

The fountain is situated at the top of Heraklion's bustling market square, surrounded by local taverns, shops, and a lively atmosphere. Reddit

For history enthusiasts, it's a quick look. However, some reviews suggest it's not a major attraction and can be disappointing due to its condition and surroundings. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Yes, the Bembo Fountain is located in Heraklion's market square, which is lined with numerous local taverns and eateries offering traditional Cretan cuisine. Reddit

You can find authentic Cretan dishes, mezes, and local specialties in the taverns surrounding the market square. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

The fountain itself, with its historical details, is the main subject. Capturing it within the context of the lively market square can also yield interesting shots. Reddit

It can be, but the area can get crowded. Early mornings might offer a less obstructed view for photography. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

Quick Sightseers & History Buffs

For those who appreciate historical architecture, the Bembo Fountain offers a glimpse into Heraklion's Venetian past. It's a quick stop to admire the stonework and imagine the city centuries ago. Combine this with a stroll through the adjacent market for a brief but enriching cultural experience. Reddit

Budget Travelers

The Bembo Fountain is free to visit, making it an excellent addition to any budget-friendly itinerary in Heraklion. You can admire its historical features without spending a dime. Pair it with exploring the market and enjoying affordable local snacks for a cost-effective outing. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Historical Significance of Bembo Fountain

The Bembo Fountain is a significant remnant of the Venetian rule in Crete, dating back to the 16th century. It's a prime example of Venetian public works, designed to provide water to the city. The fountain's architecture, with its decorative elements like coats of arms and the central statue (though now headless), speaks to the artistic and engineering capabilities of the era. It stands as a testament to Heraklion's rich history, bridging the gap between ancient and more recent pasts. Reddit

While the fountain itself is a historical artifact, its current state has drawn mixed reactions. Some visitors appreciate its historical context, while others are disappointed by its perceived neglect and the condition of the surrounding area. This contrast highlights the challenge of preserving historical sites within active urban environments. Reddit

Exploring Heraklion's Market Square

The Bembo Fountain is strategically located at the top of Heraklion's vibrant market square. This area is a hub of local activity, filled with shops selling everything from souvenirs and local produce to clothing and crafts. The atmosphere is typically lively, especially during the day, with vendors calling out and locals going about their business. Reddit

Surrounding the fountain and the market are numerous taverns and cafes, offering a chance to sample authentic Cretan cuisine. It's an ideal spot to take a break, enjoy a traditional meal, or simply soak in the local ambiance. Many visitors find that the experience of the market square enhances their visit to the fountain, making it a more engaging cultural stop. Reddit

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