Morosini Fountain Lions Square - a fountain with a statue of a man riding a horse
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Morosini Fountain Lions Square

4.5
·25k reviews·Iraklio, Greece

A historic Venetian fountain and bustling square, the heart of Heraklion's vibrant social and cultural life.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Evenings

Lively atmosphere, cafes buzzing

CrowdHigh
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Morosini Fountain Lions Square - a fountain with a statue of a man riding a horse

Morosini Fountain Lions Square

Best Time

Evenings

Lively atmosphere, cafes buzzing

CrowdHigh
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic Venetian fountain and bustling square, the heart of Heraklion's vibrant social and cultural life.

4.5
(25k reviews)

"The main square is a lively place with lots of restaurants and shops around—perfect for a casual stroll or a meal."

Vertical photo
TIP

Check Fountain Status

Confirm if the fountain is running before your visit to avoid disappointment. :water_wave:

Evening Buzz

The square truly comes alive at night with cafes and shops. :city_sunrise:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Venetian Lions

The Venetian Lions

Center of the fountain

Four majestic marble lions, symbols of Venetian power, once spouted water from their mouths.

Intricate Frescoes

Intricate Frescoes

Fountain basin

Admire the detailed carved frescoes depicting Greek mythology and marine life.

Lions Square Atmosphere

Lions Square Atmosphere

Surrounding square

Soak in the lively vibe with cafes, shops, and bustling city life.

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Planning Your Visit

Fountain Status Check

Before you go, try to find out if the Morosini Fountain is operational. Some visitors report it being dry, which can be a letdown. Check recent social media posts or local forums for current conditions.

Embrace the Buzz

This square is a lively hub, especially in the evenings. Expect crowds and a vibrant atmosphere. It's a great spot for people-watching, but if you seek quiet, consider visiting early morning.

Best Times

When
Evenings
Why
Lively atmosphere, cafes buzzing
Crowd
High
When
Early Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful
Crowd
Low

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

The Lion Fountain’s Water Clock😳 #3danimation #edit #copsontiktok #exploring #fypシ゚viral
@last.moments.elite
101.8K likes • 719.5K views

Check Fountain Status

Confirm if the fountain is running before your visit to avoid disappointment. :water_wave:

Evening Buzz

The square truly comes alive at night with cafes and shops. :city_sunrise:

People-Watching Spot

Grab a coffee and enjoy the vibrant local life. :coffee:

Historical Context

Learn about its Venetian origins and water supply history. :scroll:

Tips

from all over the internet

Check Fountain Status

Confirm if the fountain is running before your visit to avoid disappointment. :water_wave:

Evening Buzz

The square truly comes alive at night with cafes and shops. :city_sunrise:

People-Watching Spot

Grab a coffee and enjoy the vibrant local life. :coffee:

Historical Context

Learn about its Venetian origins and water supply history. :scroll:

Cockroach Alert

Be aware of potential cockroaches near the fountain base at night. :bug:

What Travellers Say

4.5
(25k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Morosini Fountain and Lions Square are a vibrant central hub in Heraklion, praised for their lively atmosphere and surrounding amenities. While the fountain's operational status can be inconsistent, the square's energy, historical significance, and abundance of cafes and shops make it a popular gathering spot for locals and tourists alike.

"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."

Christopher KB

"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."

Jeff Thomas

"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."

Martin Bridle

What People Like

Lively atmosphere
Central location
Abundant cafes & shops

What People Dislike

Fountain not always on
Can be crowded

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Morosini Fountain is centrally located in Lions Square (Plateia Eleftheriou Venizelou) in Heraklion, Crete. It's easily accessible on foot from most parts of the city center. If arriving by bus, most routes stop nearby. Taxis are also readily available.

Parking in the immediate vicinity of Lions Square can be challenging due to its central location. There are several paid parking lots within a 5-10 minute walk, such as the one near the Venetian Port or the central municipal parking garage.

Yes, Heraklion has a comprehensive bus system. Many routes converge at the central bus station, which is a short walk from Lions Square. Look for buses heading towards the city center.

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, the Morosini Fountain and Lions Square are public spaces and are free to visit. You only pay if you choose to dine at the surrounding cafes or restaurants.

Lions Square is accessible 24/7 as it's an open public area. However, the surrounding shops and cafes have their own operating hours, typically from morning until late evening.

Unfortunately, the fountain is not always operational. Some visitors have reported it being dry during their visits. It's advisable to check recent traveler photos or local information if seeing the water feature is a priority.

🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience

The square is a vibrant hub for people-watching, enjoying coffee at numerous cafes, dining at tavernas, and browsing the surrounding shops. It's a great starting point for exploring Heraklion's historic center.

Yes, Lions Square is a very popular spot and can get quite crowded, especially in the evenings and during peak tourist season. It contributes to the lively atmosphere.

Commissioned in 1628 by the Venetian governor Francesco Morosini, it was part of a project to supply Heraklion with fresh water via a 15km aqueduct. It's a masterpiece of Venetian design with historical modifications from the Ottoman period.

The fountain itself, with its lions and frescoes, makes for great photos. The surrounding square offers opportunities to capture the lively atmosphere and Venetian architecture.

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Lions Square is surrounded by a wide array of restaurants, cafes, and tavernas offering traditional Cretan cuisine, seafood, and international dishes. You'll find options for every budget and taste.

While some establishments cater to tourists, you can find more affordable options by venturing a street or two away from the immediate square. Look for local bakeries or smaller tavernas.

Cretan cuisine is a must-try, featuring fresh ingredients like olive oil, wild greens (horta), local cheeses, dakos (rusks with tomato and cheese), and grilled meats. Seafood is also abundant.

📸 📸 Photography

For capturing the fountain's details without harsh shadows, early morning is ideal. For a lively atmosphere and people shots, evenings are great, but be mindful of crowds.

Try capturing the lions from a low angle to emphasize their grandeur. Include the surrounding buildings and people in the background to convey the square's atmosphere.

Drone usage is generally restricted in urban areas and historical sites. It's best to check local regulations before attempting to fly a drone in Heraklion.

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Lions Square is a lively spot that can be fun for families, especially in the early evening before it gets too crowded. The open space allows kids a bit of room to move, and the novelty of the lion statues can be engaging. However, be mindful that it's a busy area with traffic and many cafes, so keep a close eye on children.

Consider visiting earlier in the day for a more relaxed experience. While the fountain itself might not always be active, the surrounding area offers plenty of cafes where you can grab a treat. The historical context of the fountain and the Venetian architecture can also be a gentle introduction to history for older children.

🚶 Budget Travelers

Morosini Fountain and Lions Square are free to access, making them a great budget-friendly attraction. To save money on food, avoid the restaurants directly on the main square and instead explore the side streets for more affordable tavernas and bakeries. Grabbing a Greek coffee from a local cafe is also a very inexpensive way to enjoy the atmosphere.

couples

Lions Square offers a romantic setting, especially in the evenings. Enjoy a leisurely stroll hand-in-hand, find a charming cafe for a shared coffee or dessert, and soak in the vibrant atmosphere together. The historical backdrop of the fountain adds a touch of timelessness to your visit.

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The History of the Morosini Fountain

The Morosini Fountain, also known as the Lions Fountain, is a significant historical landmark in Heraklion, Crete. Commissioned in 1628 by the Venetian governor Francesco Morosini, its primary purpose was to address the city's chronic water shortages. This ambitious project involved constructing an intricate 15-kilometer aqueduct system to channel water from the springs of Mount Juktas directly to the city center.

Architecturally, the fountain is a testament to Venetian design. It features an eight-lobed basin adorned with detailed reliefs depicting scenes from Greek mythology and marine life, such as tritons and dolphins. At its heart stand four imposing marble lions, which were once emblematic of Venetian power and from whose mouths water flowed. Originally, the fountain was crowned with a statue of the god Poseidon, but this was lost over time, possibly during the Ottoman occupation or due to an earthquake.

Over the centuries, the fountain has seen modifications. During the Ottoman period, it was adapted to suit the needs of the Muslim population, with additions like marble columns and changes for ritual washing. Later, in the early 20th century, restoration efforts aimed to bring it back to its original Venetian splendor. Today, it remains a central gathering spot, blending its rich history with the vibrant pulse of modern Heraklion.

Experiencing Lions Square

Lions Square (Plateia Eleftheriou Venizelou) is the beating heart of Heraklion, a bustling public space that draws locals and tourists alike. It's a place to see and be seen, with a constant flow of people enjoying the atmosphere. The square is lined with numerous cafes, tavernas, and shops, offering a perfect setting for a leisurely stroll, a coffee break, or a full meal.

Many visitors describe the square as having a lively and positive vibe, especially in the evenings when the lights come on and the area buzzes with activity. It's an ideal spot for people-watching, allowing you to soak in the local culture and observe the daily rhythm of Cretan life. The proximity to other historical sites and shopping streets makes it a convenient central point for exploration.

While the fountain is a focal point, the overall experience of Lions Square is about immersing yourself in the energetic ambiance. Whether you're enjoying a traditional Greek coffee or a delicious Cretan dish, the square offers a quintessential Heraklion experience. Just be prepared for crowds, particularly during peak hours and seasons.

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