The Porta Sabbionara, also known as the Sand Gate (Pili tis Ammou in Greek), is the northeastern and only surviving gate of the three on the second (outer) Venetian wall of Chania. Its construction began in the early 16th century and was completed in 1590. The Venetians named it “Sabionera” (Sand Gate) due to the sandy beach located there. The gate was originally closed with a grand door made of thick wood and reinforced with iron cladding.
During the siege of Chania in 1645, the Turks destroyed the Sabbionara Gate. They later rebuilt it on a smaller scale to enhance its defensibility against enemy attacks, renaming it Kum-Kapisi, which also means “Sand Gate” in Turkish. Today, the entire eastern area outside the city walls is referred to as “Kum Kapi.”
The adjacent bastion, named after the Venetian Mocenigo, was constructed in the sea. The southern side of the bastion is adorned with the emblem of the lion of Saint Mark, various coats of arms, and the date 1591.
The remnants of the Sabbionara bastion, which was bombed during World War II, are situated south of the gate. Following restoration efforts, the gate has been repurposed as an exhibition space by the Municipality of Chania.
Means of Access:
- Car
- On Foot
Disabled Access:
- Yes
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