Stoa Makasi

About

The Stoa Makasi is one of the most atmospheric structures integrated into Heraklion’s Venetian Walls, a long vaulted corridor built in the 16th century as part of the Martinengo Bastion. Originally designed as a military passage and storage area, it later became a shelter during sieges, offering protection thanks to its thick stone walls and impressive barrel‑vaulted ceiling. Its name is believed to derive from the Venetian word magazzino, meaning warehouse, reflecting its early logistical role. Inside, Stoa Makasi reveals a striking architectural rhythm: a sequence of arches, dim light, and cool stone that creates a sense of stepping into a hidden chapter of the city’s past. Today, the space has been transformed into a cultural venue, hosting exhibitions, performances, and community events. Its acoustics are particularly notable, making concerts and readings feel intimate and resonant. Informational panels explain how the stoa functioned during the long Ottoman siege of Heraklion, when every chamber of the fortifications was vital for defence and storage. Walking through it, you can sense both the weight of history and the creativity of its modern reuse.

Heraklion Greece

Location

Stoa Makasi, also known as the Makasi Gate, is a fascinating underground arcade built beneath the massive Venetian fortification walls of Heraklion, Crete. You can find this historical passage located along Leoforos Nikolaou Plastira, Iraklio 712 01, positioned directly under the famous Martinengo Bastion. Originally constructed during the Venetian era as a military sally port for soldiers to access the defensive moat, it later served as a shelter and prison during World War II, making it a poignant historic venue for cultural exhibitions and memorial events. Because it is embedded right in the southern section of the old town's defensive ring, exploring nearby attractions is very straightforward. Standing directly above the passage on top of the Martinengo Bastion is the Tomb of Nikos Kazantzakis, the famous Greek author, offering sweeping views over the city. Just a short walk down from the walls brings you into the lively center to see the Cathedral of Saint Minas, one of the largest in Greece, as well as the historic Bembo Fountain and the 1866 Street Traditional Market.Heading slightly north along the pedestrian streets leads to Eleftherias Square, home to the Venetian Gate of Saint George and the world-renowned Heraklion Archaeological Museum. Continuing toward the coast brings you to Lions Square, the Venetian Loggia, and down to the seafront where you can tour the Historical Museum of Crete and the imposing Venetian Fortress of Koules guarding the ancient harbor.