Morosini Fountain (with kids)
How Kids-Friendly is Morosini Fountain?
What makes it 72% Kids-Friendly: Children can count the four lions, get ice cream nearby and learn local history, yet traffic and dense crowds require close supervision and there is no dedicated play area.
Positives:
- Free access: Enjoy the fountain and square without an entry fee.
- Central location: Located in the city center near shops and cafes.
- Interactive fun: Kids can count lions and spot detailed carvings.
Challenges:
- Crowded at midday: The square fills up around lunch, making it hard to find space.
- No play facilities: No playground or child-specific seating areas.
- Uneven surfaces: Cobblestone ground can be slippery for young children.
What is Morosini Fountain?
- A 17th-century Venetian fountain erected in 1628 by Governor Francesco Morosini in Heraklion’s central Piazza Venezia
- Four intricately carved stone lions positioned at the fountain’s cardinal points, each spouting water into eight ornate marble basins
- An exemplary work of Venetian Baroque stone carving that stands as a historic emblem of Heraklion’s architectural heritage
What is so special about Morosini Fountain for with kids?
- Spot and count the fountain’s four lion heads.
- Enjoy Greek pastries and gelato at nearby cafes.
- Share simple myths by pointing out carved reliefs.
- Use the central square for a quick, interactive stop.
- Stroll adjacent pedestrian lanes for souvenir hunts.
Recommended visit duration: 1-2 hours
Why 1-2 hours visit duration is ideal for with kids: Enough time to explore the fountain, enjoy snacks, and stroll nearby with kids.
Kids-Friendly Activities in Morosini Fountain
Count the lions:
Spot the four lion head sculptures gushing water.
Tip: Ask each child to count them aloud for a fun challenge.
Myth-relief storytelling:
Observe carved dolphins, tritons, and coats of arms on the basin.
Tip: Share a simple Greek myth to engage kids with the carvings.
Sweet breakfast:
Buy warm bougatsa and cold juice at a fountain-view café.
Tip: Go early before 10:00 to grab seats and avoid crowds.
Gelato break:
Enjoy Greek ice cream at one of the square’s cafés.
Tip: Choose local flavors like honey or pistachio for a taste of Crete.
Pedestrian lane stroll:
Walk down Korai or Handakos Streets for shops and souvenirs.
Tip: Set a small spending limit so kids can pick a postcard or magnet.
How to Make the Most of Your Visit to Morosini Fountain
- Go early: Arrive before 10:00 to avoid heat and peak crowds.
- Café reservation: Secure a table with a fountain view for snack breaks.
- Combine activities: Pair the visit with a walk through nearby pedestrian streets.
Reviews of Morosini Fountain
Jeff Thomas
The fountain is nice. Beautiful carved frescoes all over. However, the fountain was never "on" in the 2.5 days I was there. At night, cockroaches come out of the cracks by the base. The fountain area is packed with tourists that give off a positive vibe and energy. Surrounded by restaurants all over the place and street shops hawking various wares. The fountain is at least 350 years old.
Martin Bridle
Great central location in Heraklion, Cretes capital city. Lots going on here, squares to sit and people watch, cafes,bars and restaurants plus shopping. If you're after historical- lots to see too. If you're looking for smaller and more picturesque, go to Agios Niklaus.
Ioannis Daras
A beautiful historic spot in the heart of Heraklion! The Liontaria Fountain, built by the Venetians in 1628, is full of charm and detail. The four lions, the flowing water, and the elegant carvings make it a perfect place to pause, take photos, and soak in the atmosphere. Still a lively meeting point for locals and visitors alike.
Christopher KB
The main square is a lively place with lots of restaurants and shops around—perfect for a casual stroll or a meal. However, during our visit, the fountain wasn’t working, which was a bit disappointing. Still, the atmosphere and variety of places nearby made it worth the stop.
R
Also known as the Lions Fountain, is a prominent historical landmark situated in the heart of Heraklion, Crete. Commissioned in 1628 by the Venetian governor Francesco Morosini, the fountain was part of an ambitious project to supply the city with fresh water. An intricate 15-kilometer aqueduct system was constructed to channel water from the springs of Mount Juktas to the city center, addressing ...
When is the best time to visit Morosini Fountain (Heraklion, Greece)?
In summer, visit before 10:00 to avoid heat and crowds. In winter, bring a light jacket as the fountain spray can feel chilly for kids.
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Typical Budget for a Family of 4 (2 Adults + 2 Kids)
| Item | Cost (Approx.) |
|---|---|
| Breakfast bougatsa & juice (4) | EUR 14 |
| Gelato (4 scoops) | EUR 12 |
| Bottled water (4) | EUR 6 |
| Souvenirs | EUR 10 |
| Total Estimated | EUR 42 |
Note: All prices are indicative and may vary. Please check directly with the venue for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
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Map of Morosini Fountain
Address: Pl. El. Venizelou, Iraklio 712 02, Greece
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About Morosini 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.
Phone Number
+30 281 340 900010 BEST nearby Activities
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