Venetian Conquest of Crete: What Happened
After the Fourth Crusade, Venice acquired the rights to Crete in 1204 by buying the island from Boniface of Montferrat, one of the crusade's leaders. Venice's rival Genoa had already seized part of the island, and it took Venice several years to drive out the Genoese and establish full control, which it achieved by around 1211. Crete became the Kingdom of Candia, named after its capital, Candia, modern Heraklion, and the most important Venetian colony in the eastern Mediterranean. Venice ruled the island for over four and a half centuries. It built massive fortifications, harbors and public buildings in Candia, Chania and Rethymno, many of which survive today. Venetian rule was often harsh at first, and the Cretans launched numerous revolts over the centuries. Over time, however, Greek and Venetian cultures blended. In the 16th and 17th centuries, a Cretan Renaissance flourished, producing the painter El Greco, a school of icon painting, and the epic poem Erotokritos. Venetian rule ended when the Ottomans captured Candia in 1669, after a siege lasting more than twenty years.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Venice take Crete?
Venice bought the rights to Crete in 1204 and established full control by around 1211, after driving out its rival Genoa.
How long did Venice rule Crete?
Venice ruled Crete for more than four and a half centuries, until the Ottomans captured Candia, modern Heraklion, in 1669.
What was the Kingdom of Candia?
The Kingdom of Candia was the name of Venetian Crete, after its capital Candia. It was the most important Venetian colony in the eastern Mediterranean.
What is the Cretan Renaissance?
The Cretan Renaissance was a flowering of art and literature in Venetian Crete in the 16th and 17th centuries, producing El Greco, icon painters and the poem Erotokritos.
Can you see Venetian buildings in Crete?
Yes. Venetian fortresses, harbors, fountains and buildings survive in Heraklion, Chania and Rethymno, including the Koules fortress and the old harbor of Chania.
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