In 1252, the prefecture of Chania was divided in 90 feuds assigned to the Venetian settlers, who in return were ordered to reconstruct the city of Chania. The Venetians settlers then constructed the wall of "Kasteli" and organized the urban plan of the city within the walls. A new modern city was then constructed, within the city walls. Gradually, the city extended outside the old fortress, and the reconstruction and modernization of the city walls was also necessary. Thus, in the mid-16^th century the city was re-fortified under the supervision of the famous for his fortification works Μichele Sanmichielli, who designed modern walls with a trench, which was never filled with water. 

Within the new limits of the city -which also included the portside-, a better urban plan was designed and temples were built or renovated, as well as large public and private buildings according to Venetian standards. The city of Chania developed to the second city of "the Kingdom of Crete", it became the headquarters of the Rector and of the Latin Bishop. The city and its port became the center of a rich agricultural region, with strong economic and cultural relations with Venice. Parts of the city walls are still preserved, while recently renovation works are conducted in order to maintain the beauty of the old city.