Grand Arsenal

The Grand Arsenal (called “Megalo Arsenali” in Greek) is a historic 16th-century Venetian shipyard located at the western end of the Venetian Old Harbour of Chania. Built beginning around 1585, it was once part of the extensive Venetian dockyards (“Neoria”) that served ship maintenance and maritime defence during Venetian rule. Over the centuries the building served varied roles including a school, theatre, hospital and city hall before falling into disrepair. After restoration completed in the early 2000s, it now houses the Centre of Mediterranean Architecture (CAM). Today, the Grand Arsenal is a cultural hub hosting exhibitions, art and architecture events, conferences and international cultural gatherings, making it a must-see landmark for architecture, history and culture enthusiasts visiting Chania