The seaside fort Enetiko Frourio Koules at the entrance to the old harbour of Crete’s capital Heraklion has a rich history. It was at the center of several epic struggles for sovereignty of the island, most notably the Ottoman siege that lasted 21 years from 1648 until 1669 – probably the longest in history. It ended with Ottoman victory after the flagship of a French-led relief fleet, the La Thérèse, sank when her powder magazine exploded.
Salvaged cannon from the La Thérèse are today the highlight of the little museum in the fort, in particular three masterly crafted bronze cannon.
