Crete is home to eight castles. Most are Venetian. Today we will explore some of the more popular.
Starting with Gramvousa.
Gramvousa was built in the 13th Century. There is little left but ruins. It was raided many times by pirates including Barbarossa. It is worth the steep hike to explore.
https://youtu.be/BPygckMmm2Q
Another popular castle in Crete is Frangokastello.
This castle, located on the South coat of Crete has a bloody and violent history, and stories of hauntings. It was built in 1371 on a long streath of isolated beach. in the 1800's the Sfakian soldiers fought the Turks here, resulting in many deaths. To this day, locals report a ghostly parade of these black clad Sfakian men from the castle to the nearby church, on or about the anniversary of the battle. This has been witnessed many times and even the subject of paranormal investigation.
Frangokastello is the most complete castle remaining on the island.
Inside the castle walls.
https://youtu.be/WocorC1iETs
and a video related to the hauntings or "dew-men"
https://youtu.be/jrydIGzxk1Y
Castello Del Molo
(aka)
Koules Venetian Fortress in Heraklion
The locals refer to it as "The Jumbled Box".
https://youtu.be/Xi8LqiwYNpA
The castle is used as an open air theater and for music and art exhibits these days. Its most distinguishing feature is that of the lion over its entryway.
The lion is The Lion of Mark and symbolic of Venice. The castle was last rebuilt in the mid-1500's after much earthquake damage.
Soon to try the Honey of Crete. Winging its way this way...and explore Dikti Cave.
The birthplace of Zeus.
More anon...
Dikti Cave
