Rethymno: Irresistible Charm of a Captivating City
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Rethymno stands as one of Greece's best-preserved medieval cities, where the Venetian fortifications seamlessly merge with Orthodox and Catholic churches, grand Venetian mansions, archways, and cobblestone streets. This captivating blend of architectural elements creates an awe-inspiring atmosphere that leaves visitors mesmerised.
The Old City of Rethymno boasts an array of remarkable monuments that captivate visitors with their historical significance and architectural splendour. These notable landmarks include the imposing Fortezza, (Venetian fortress) Loggia, once a gathering place for Venetian nobility, the Rimondi Fountain, adorned with the coat of arms of the Venetian governor Rimondi, and Guora Gate, (also known as the Great Gate) which serves as the main entrance to the Venetian land wall, the majestic church of St Francis and the picturesque Venetian harbour. Additionally, from the era of Ottoman domination, Rethymno preserves several mosques, including Kara Musa Pasha, Neratze, Valide Sultana, and Mastaba (located in the modern city).
Photo by Marina Vernicos
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add to travel planGerani of Rethymno: Named after a Well!
Discover the verdant and traditional village nestled within the Municipality of Rethymno, Gerani.
Its name stems from a type of pump known as ‘gerani’, once the sole water source for its inhabitants, drawn from the village's only well.
Situated amidst olive trees, Gerani's landscape, although rocky, boasts oak and carob trees.
Delve into Gerani Cave, adorned with magnificent stalagmite formations and comprising six chambers.
The parish church, Agios Georgios, constructed in 1888, stands proudly in the village. Other notable churches include Sotiras Christos at the village entrance, Agia Paraskevi, Agios Antonios, and Agioi Theodori. However, the most significant among them is the old church of Panagia in Kamari (Kamariani), nestled by the sea amidst a forest of tamarisk trees.
If you happen to visit the area during Clean Monday, don't miss the spectacle of the ‘Camel Parade’!
Info: Wikipedia
add to travel planGeni and the Historic Fountain
Situated at an altitude of 420 metres and 24 kilometres from Rethymno with a population of 32, Geni is a small village with its first historical references dating back to 1577.
Throughout its history, Geni has witnessed various conquerors. In the Venetian era, it embraced a multicultural identity, later becoming a predominantly Muslim village.
The Church of the Transfiguration of the Saviour, situated within the settlement, operates as an integral part of the Monastery of Chalevi.
In November 2022, the refurbished historic fountain in Geni was unveiled, marking its inauguration. This fountain, a historical monument in the village, stands out as a cherished jewel for the entire area.
Photo: By Michal Hejmann Via Unsplash
add to travel planKato Valsamonero: A Well-Kept Village
Kato Valsamonero is one of the most beautiful and well-kept villages in Rethymno.
Boasting stunning views and a strategic location, Kato Valsamonero stands as one of the oldest villages in Crete. It played a crucial role as a centre of resistance during the German occupation, utilising the renowned Cave of Vasilis as its base.
With over 200 permanent residents, the village's focal point is the Church of Agios Ioannis Chrysostom, dating back to the end of the 14th century.
Photo: By Marita Mones Via Unsplash
