Historical Sightseeing around Rethymno

Arkadi Monastery

Following a 30-minute scenic drive from Rethymno, is the Arkadi Monastery, the most famous all over Crete. Its church is considered the most luxurious and admirable of all the churches of Crete. The monastery played an active role in the Cretan resistance to Ottoman rule during the Cretan revolt of 1866. The Turks besieged the monastery, but the Cretans, unwilling to surrender, ignited the barrels full of ammunition, and they blew themselves up. The Holocaust passed in history, and UNESCO declared the sacred monastery of Arkadi a European monument of Liberty.

Museum of Ancient Eleftherna

This is a museum where exhibits from the ancient city of Eleftherna are displayed. It’s the only museum worldwide that focuses on the poet Homer and, through its finds, illustrates and verifies the Homeric descriptions from his two epic poems: the Iliad and the Odyssey. Don’t miss the opportunity to interfere in the Homeric world: a world filled with war, noblemen, wealth, sea voyages, open horizons, commerce, adventures, and art.

Margarites Village

Visit Margarites village, which is famous for its traditional pottery. Wander in the picturesque village, watch local potters at work and buy handmade souvenirs and vases to take home. Taste lamb-cooked antikristo style in a local taverna.