Attractions to Experience in Rethymno, Crete
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Rethymno is located on Crete, the largest of the Greek islands. Rethymno has much to offer visitors as it is home to Byzantine buildings, Venetian mansions, and Ottoman mosques. The natural beauty is just as impressive with its gorges, streams that flow through the mountains,
vineyards, forests, and beaches. Spending time on the island of Rethymno will give you much to see and do!
Visit the Cave of Melidoni
The Cave if Melidoni is located in the village of Melidoni. This impressive cave has many halls and stalagmite and stalactite formations. The cave has quite a history in addition to its beauty. In 1834, the Cave of Melidoni was used as a hideout for women and children of the village who did not want to surrender to the Turks. Tragically, the cave was set fire to and those hiding inside died. The Hall of Heroes is at the main entrance of the cave. This is where you will see a monument that contains the bones of those who died that sad day. Both the village and the cave were named after Antonios Melidonis who was one of the people who led the rebellion against the Turks.
Platanias Beach
Located just 4 km east of Rethymno, Platanias Beach gets quite popular thanks to its convenience to town. The beach is long and organized with grey sand and pebbles. The beach experiences meltemia, which are summer winds. Water sports are available at Platanias Beach or you can enjoy wading and swimming in the lovely water. Getting to the beach is easy as the buses run from Rethymno Town. There are Greek taverns in the area where you can get local food.
Archaeological Museum of Rethymno
Housed in the pentagonal building across from the main gate of the Fortezza since 1991, the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno showcases items such as vessels, gold jewelry, bronze tools, and sculptures. These items come from the Geometrical, Ancient, Classical, Hellenistic, and Roman times. Collections at the Archaeological Museum of Rethymno include: finds from the Minoan settlements at Apodoulou and Monastiraki, finds from the caves of Melidoni, Helenes, and Gerani, a figurine of the Minoan goddess, a marble statue of Aphrodite, and a clay model of a shrine.
Town Beach
Town Beach is within walking distance of Rethymno Town making it a popular choice for both locals and tourists. The beach stretches for a several kilometers and is organized. There are sun beds, umbrellas, and beach bars lining the beach. Due to the strong winds, the water might not be ideal for children, but there are weather flags located on the beach informing swimmers of the current safety level. Another nearby beach called Enetiko, just 1 km from the town center of Rethymno, is good for swimming and relaxing on the sandy shore. This beach is close to a historic lighthouse, a fortress, and taverns.
Rethymno, Greece has a number of prominent attractions and beaches to take in while you’re there. You won’t for a moment be bored in this beautiful and historic town.
Categorized in: About Crete Greece, About Rethymno, Greece, Greek Travel Guide
This post was written by Greek Boston
