Venetian Loggia

The Venetian Loggia is a restored, two-storey Venetian building on August 25 Street in central Heraklion, now used as the city hall. Completed in 1628 under Venetian governor Francesco Morosini, it served as a meeting place for nobles discussing political and commercial affairs. Look for the semi-circular arches, stone decoration and mix of Doric and Ionic details. You can enter the courtyard for free, though access beyond it may be limited because the building is still a working government office. Liontaria Fountain is a short walk away.

A meeting place for Venetian nobles

The Loggia was built in the early 17th century under Francesco Morosini, the Venetian governor of Heraklion. Completed in 1628, it became a place where aristocrats and officials met to discuss the city’s political, financial and commercial affairs. It also functioned as a club where members of the nobility could gather.

The building’s role continued after the Venetian period. During Ottoman rule, it was used for administration, and the Loggia remains a public building today as Heraklion’s city hall.

Arches, columns and the courtyard

The rectangular, two-storey building is known for its Venetian design, with semi-circular arches and a combination of Doric and Ionic architectural details. Look for sculpted stone decorations, including coats of arms and metopes, across the facade.

The courtyard gives a different view of the building from the street. Its open space and surrounding architecture are among the reasons to look inside, when access allows. The Loggia has been restored and received the Europa Nostra award in 1987 for its preservation.