Bembo fountain (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Bembo fountain?
The traffic-free square lets kids burn energy and learn simple history, yet there are no toilets, play structures, or interactive displays, so interest may fade after a short stay.
Positives:
- Free Admission: No ticket fee lets you spend more on snacks or nearby attractions.
- Safe Play Area: The pedestrian square has no traffic, ideal for kids to explore with you.
Challenges:
- Limited Shade: Few umbrellas or overhangs mean the square can get hot at midday.
- No Public Restrooms: The fountain area lacks toilets; use nearby cafés for restroom breaks.
What is Bembo fountain?
- A mid-16th-century marble fountain commissioned by Venetian governor Marino Bembo, blending Gothic and Renaissance design
- An octagonal stone structure adorned with carved Venetian coats of arms, heraldic lion motifs and a central headless Roman statue
- A historic public monument in Kornarou Square, exemplifying the ornate stone craftsmanship of Venetian Crete
What is so special about Bembo fountain for with kids?
- Free, historic 16th-century fountain with Venetian coats of arms
- Open square space for kids to play safely
- Interactive activities: photo hunt and simple history lessons
- Nearby cafés offer quick snacks and resting spots
- Easy to add to a broader walking tour of Heraklion’s old town
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: A 1-2 hour visit lets kids play, explore carvings, and enjoy snacks without tiring them.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Bembo fountain
Open-Square Playtime:
Let kids walk or run safely in the pedestrian Kornarou Square around the fountain.
Tip: Bring a small ball or chalk to spark extra play.
Mini History Lesson:
Point out the coats of arms, lion carvings, and the headless statue while telling simple stories.
Tip: Use a free audio guide from the MyTours app to add fun facts.
Photo Scavenger Hunt:
Create a list of fountain details for kids to find and photograph.
Tip: Give them a printed checklist and a phone or disposable camera.
Snack Break at Café:
Enjoy pastries and fresh juice at the Sebil café by the fountain.
Tip: Sit on the nearby benches for a picnic-style rest.
When is the best time to visit Bembo fountain (Heraklion, Greece)?
In summer, visit early morning or late afternoon to avoid heat. Bring hats and water. In winter, dress in layers due to wind in the open square.
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Reviews of Bembo fountain (Heraklion)
Lukasz Kowalski
Unfortunately, the Bembo Fountain turned out to be a huge disappointment. The place is very neglected and poorly maintained. The area around the fountain smells of urine, and it is very dirty and covered in bird droppings. It's sad to see such a historic site in such a state. It's definitely not worth visiting in its current state.
David Allcock
Beautiful location, graffiti everywhere stinks off urine.
Tomas Tichopad
Beautiful place with lot of tourist local taverns.
Dave S
It's a late medieval (Venetian) fountain that's worth a quick look but nothing really special. The figurine is interesting, possibly older than the fountain. Can be found at the top of the market.
Angie B.
This recently popped up in my timeline and I had no idea it was a historic fountain in Crete. I was simply enjoying an elderly gentleman feeding the pigeons in the heart of Heraklion. As you can see, I was more entranced by the local than I was the fountain but had I known I would have inspected it more closely.
Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Fountain visit (free) | EUR 0 |
| Kids pastries & juice (2) | EUR 6 |
| Adults coffee & soft drinks (2) | EUR 8 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 14 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
Content Notice: This content combines editorial expertise with AI assistance to ensure comprehensive and up-to-date information. Our team regularly curates and reviews all content for accuracy and relevance. Help Us Improve
How to Maximize Your Visit to Bembo fountain
- Use Audio Guides: Download the free Bembo Fountain track on the MyTours app for engaging stories.
- Combine with Old Market Walk: After your visit, stroll into the adjacent market streets for crafts and snacks.
Map of Bembo fountain
Address: Pl. Kornarou 2, Iraklio 712 01, Greece
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About Bembo fountain
Opening Hours
Hours may vary during holidays, special events, and peak seasons. Please check the official website for the most up-to-date information.
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