Heraklion has been the capital of Crete since 1971. It is the fifth largest city in Greece, with a population of approximately 155,000. It is a busy and very affluent place, ideal for a day visit for shopping and wandering through the streets and having lunch on the square by the famous Morosoni Fountain but not for staying overnight. Heraklion is of course most famous for the Knossos site and the Heraklion Archaeological Museum. The fabulous Minoan palace of Knossos, once the residence of the legendary King Minos, stands loftily on a hill on the outskirts of Heraklion. In it’s heyday it must have been an impressive sight, with its splendid architecture, monumental staircases and beautiful coloured frescoes. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum holds a wonderful collection of Minoan jewellery and artifacts, all relics of a highly artistic, creative and peaceful civilisation.