The Town of Rethymnon, Crete
Rethymnon town, on the north coast of Crete, lies on the island’s longest sandy beach and is known by visitors as the “hidden jewel” of Crete. Since 1400 BC the Minoans, Venetians, Turks and Cretans have built their ancient cities, minarets, citadels, the hilltop Fortezza, winding narrow streets, fishing harbour and lighthouse which create an old-world charm.
Situated on the north coast of Crete at equal distances from Heraklion and Chania, Rethymnon is also a short distance from the most spectacular countryside making it an ideal centre to explore Crete and for any type of holiday.
The town is a charming mix of old and new, the old town offers numerous places to enjoy a meal, a drink, coffee, sweets and ice creams
Shop till you drop in a variety of traditional and modern shops from local products and handicrafts to designer jewelry and leather goods. Unique museum copies are available in the old town.
The Venetian fortress (Fortezza) and the picturesque harbour constructed from the Venetian colonists, mosques with minarets located on the small and narrow path walks of the old town, Venetian mansions with strong oriental configurations that give a special character to the city of Rethymnon.
Visit Rimondi Fountain, built in 1626 by the governor of Rethymnon, sports three lions with bulging eyes that still spout water from their mouths into a marble bowl.
Take a leisurely walk around the fortress and let your imagination run wild and picture yourself in front of the many cannons defending the city from the pirates that would be trying to invade it.
Opposite the fortress is the Archaeological Museum, which is now housed in an old converted prison, exhibits from the surrounding area include Neolithic finds, Minoan pottery and an interesting collection of Greek and Roman coins.
In the town there are other museums, national gardens and the centre of modern art (Lefteris Kanakakis picture gallery).
