Discover the village of Malades near Heraklion

Malades lies just under 9 km south of Heraklion and very close to the village of Finikia. The main Heraklion–Pretoria road runs through Malades and provides access to the village. The church of Agioi Anargyroi is also located in Malades. This clearly establishes the village’s geographical location; at the same time, Heraklion offers a distinct cultural perspective, with its museums and historic buildings.

Malades and choosing where to stay

When looking for a holiday apartment, it is worth first deciding what you want to focus on: Malades as a village destination, or Heraklion and its urban cultural offerings. The village’s location south of the city and the main road that runs through it provide orientation without promising a specific journey time or connection. The church of Agioi Anargyroi is a specific local landmark. Heraklion’s museums and historic sites, by contrast, offer a separate itinerary that you can factor into your holiday plans.

Heraklion: museums with a range of themes

At the Historical Museum of Crete, visitors can see two paintings by El Greco, from 1569 and 1570. They are the artist’s only works on Crete. The museum also has a dedicated collection on Cretan writer Nikos Kazantzakis, featuring personal belongings and manuscripts. Painting and literary history are thus presented side by side, although the two subjects are not limited to the same period.

The Heraklion Archaeological Museum displays evidence of Crete’s prehistoric, early and later history, spanning the Neolithic period to Roman times. Those interested in long-term developments will find a different perspective on the island’s history here than in the collections on El Greco or Kazantzakis. The Natural History Museum of Crete offers another focus: its interactive exhibitions and games for children and adults include the Enceladus earthquake simulator. Exhibitions may change, so check the current programme before planning a visit.

Buildings and exploring the city of Heraklion

Heraklion’s buildings also tell the story of different chapters in the city’s past. The Venetians built Koules Fortress to protect the pier and harbour. The Loggia is a Venetian building dating from the 16th century. The Basilica of Agia Ekaterini was built in 1555 and was home in the 16th and 17th centuries to a prestigious school for Renaissance painters and writers. The Cathedral of Agios Minas is dedicated to Heraklion’s patron saint and is one of the largest churches in Greece.

The Basilica of San Marco now houses the municipal art gallery, where art and handicraft exhibitions are held. As the exhibition programme may change, it is a good idea to check what is currently on offer before visiting. For a walk around the city, the pedestrianised 25 August Street is worth exploring: it runs between Heraklion’s Old Harbour and Lion Square. Visitors can also walk along the city walls and enjoy views over the city. Conditions of use and access may change; check them before your visit.

Rural experiences and activities in the Heraklion destination

Vineyards and olive groves are part of the landscape of the rural area of the Municipality of Heraklion. The villages there retain features of Cretan architecture and their own distinct historical heritage. This rural area offers routes for hiking, cycling and driving, as well as opportunities for climbing and caving; there are also forest trails. When planning, it helps to focus on the activity you want to do rather than treating all the options as one single excursion programme. Conditions on individual routes and at individual sites may change.

The culinary offerings in the rural area of the Municipality of Heraklion include traditional eateries where dishes are prepared with fresh local produce. Businesses and individual offerings may change. Together with the vineyards, olive groves and diverse cultural attractions, this provides a varied perspective on Heraklion as a destination.

Discover more destinations: Agios Myron, Kamárai, Mesi, Sivas, Anissaras, Galia, Thrapsano, Mátala.

For the broader travel guide: Heraklion.