The iconic Sabbionara Gate of the Venetian Walls officially opened to the public on Friday afternoon, July 24. The gate connects Efesou Street with Doukos Bofor Street and will remain open from Monday to Saturday, between 09:00 and 22:00, under supervision.
The Mayor of Heraklion, Alexis Kalokairinos, accompanied by Deputy Mayor of Culture Rena Papadaki-Skalidi and municipal archaeologist Kallia Nikolidakis, visited the site, noting that both residents and visitors have already begun to walk through the historic passage.
The Pantokrator Gate at Chaniopporta also opened on Friday afternoon, hosting an exhibition by the Heraklion Ephorate of Antiquities titled “Heraklion – 40 Centuries of History.” The exhibition highlights the city’s long historical journey, showcasing important moments and monuments from its past.
According to the Mayor, this achievement reflects the excellent cooperation between the Municipality of Heraklion, the Ministry of Culture, and the Ephorate of Antiquities. For the first time in centuries, all four main gates of the Venetian Walls – Sabbionara, Pantokrator, Agios Georgios, and Jesus – are now open simultaneously.
These initiatives are part of a broader Cultural Development Program Agreement between the Municipality of Heraklion, the Ministry of Culture, and the Region of Crete, aiming to protect, enhance, and promote the Venetian fortifications and the historic shipyards of the city.