Heraklion  is the largest urban centre in Crete, capital of the region Heraklio and the economic centre of the island. The first European civilisation, the Minoan civilisation, flourished on this land  5000 years ago. The conquering of Constantinople by the Franks in 1204,  left Crete under the sovereignty of the Venetians until 1669. During this period,  Heraklion experienced significant cultural growth and became the capital of the ' 'Regno di Candia''. However, all this cultural and spiritual growth came to a sudden end in 1669 with the invasion of Crete by the Turks. Crete became autonomous in 1897, to be united with Greece in 1913. The cultural heritage of the city of Heraklion  Offers a variety of forms of modern entertainment. Every year, the city, as well as Numerous villages in the surrounding area, organize cultural events such as theatrical  Performances, art exhibitions, musical nights and festivals which attract a lot of   People, For those inclined to modern entertainment and  clubbing, the city offers ample opportunities for night life. Heraklion is a city  with one foot rooted in the past, the other stepping into the future. Currently  the population of Heraklion is approximately 150000 people. It is a very dynamic  and famous town, particularly during the summer period when thousands of visitors can be seen shopping in the market or visiting the museums and other places  of interest. Today Heraklion is the top choice for tourist destinations in the Mediterranean.The unique natural beauty favours the development of alternative forms of tourism  and provides a combination of mountain and sea sports. The city is also the commercial and scientific centre of the island. It has a  strategic geopolitical position in the southeast basin of the Mediterranean  Sea connecting three continents and many different cultures. During the last 20 years the city has made remarkable progress in the academic  And technological fields.  The dynamic and imaginative combination of natural beauty, climate, strategic Position, cultural heritage and scientific background has created an appropriate  Environment to add value to the broader entrepreneurial activity in the region and  stimulate the local economy. view here in Travelpage  hotels in Heraklion Regions