[1] The fortifications managed to withstand the second longest siege in history for 21 years, before the city fell to the Ottomans in 1669.

[2] The walls remain largely intact to this day, and they are considered to be among the best preserved Venetian fortifications in Europe.

[3] In the early 13th century, Candia (modern Heraklion) and the rest of Crete fell under the control of the Republic of Venice.

[4] Over the years, the fortifications were strengthened with the construction of various outworks, while the Rocca al Mare (now known as the Koules Fortress) was built to protect the harbour entrance.

[3] The Ottomans also built a small fort known as Little Koules on the landward side close to the Rocca al Mare.

[6] The demolition was never carried out, and the walls remain largely intact, being among the best preserved Venetian fortifications in Europe.

The entire enceinte was surrounded by a deep ditch and various outworks, including several ravelins, three hornworks and a crownwork.

The Fort of St. Demetrius, consisting of a small bastion and two demi-bastions, was built on the hill to the east of the city.