Fountains of Heraklion

The city of Heraklion, since it was founded always faced water shortages, due to the lack of water resources in a relative proximity. Until the 17th century, the city was irrigated by reservoirs of ground water, or water wells inside houses, from public wells as well as small fountains. Nevertheless, all the above solutions combined were not sufficient to solve the irrigation problem. The first and most significant effort to transfer water from springs to the thirsty city of Chandax was made by the Venetians. Morosini was the one that came up with a solution by planning and constructing a big aqueduct that transported fresh water from springs in Gioughtas mountains into the city of Heraklion and finally into its fountains. The most famous fountain of all, was the one bearing his name, the Morosini Fountain still seen today.

Do you want a walking tour in Heraklion? Learn about Knossos and its treasures

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