The capital of Crete is CANEA (5 letters) and CANDIA (6 letters). CANEA is the largest city on the island of Crete and is located in the northwest corner of the island. It was founded by the Venetians in the 13th century and was the capital of Crete until 1971 when it was replaced by Heraklion. CANDIA, also known as Heraklion, is the current capital of Crete and is located in the center of the island. It is the fourth largest city in Greece and is home to many archaeological sites, including the Palace of Knossos.