Firka Fortress at the western harbour entrance, Chania
The Venetian fortress of 1620 at the western entrance of the harbour, where the Greek flag was raised on 1 December 1913.
Firka (Firkas) was built by the Venetians in 1620 to protect the harbour entrance and its chain, which could be raised across the mouth of the port. It later served the Ottomans as barracks and a prison. On 1 December 1913 the Greek flag was raised here for the union of Crete with Greece, and the day is still marked every year. The fortress now houses the Maritime Museum of Crete and offers views from its ramparts across the harbour.
| Admission | About EUR 3-5 (about USD 3.45-5.75) |
|---|---|
| Hours | Reported about 09:00-16:00 or 17:00; days and hours vary. Confirm locally. |
| Address | Firkas Fortress, Old Venetian Harbour, 731 31 Chania, Crete, Greece |
Why it matters
Harbour fortress and the site of the 1913 union flag-raising.
Site facts
- Built
- 1620
- Architect
- Venetian military engineers
- Style
- Venetian military architecture
- UNESCO listing
- Not a UNESCO World Heritage Site
Location
Firkas Fortress, Old Venetian Harbour, 731 31 Chania, Crete, Greece
35.5190, 24.0146 View on map
Highlights
- Site of the 1913 union flag-raising
- Ramparts and harbour views
- Maritime Museum of Crete
Tips for visiting
- Visit in the morning and confirm the opening days and ticket price.
- Walk the ramparts for harbour views.
When to visit
Morning, April to June and September to October
Accessibility
Stone ramps and steps; limited wheelchair access.