The first place we’ll visit during our tour will be St. Irini Monastery (Agia Irini). Travel time from the Chania region is about one hour.
It was first mentioned in 1362, however, we know that in 1821 it was abandoned and in 1867 conquered and looted by Turkish invaders. Only in 1989, the decision was made about restoration and 3 nuns came here for that mission. Almost all the buildings were renovated, and only a cave that used to be a monasterial cell now reminds about the old times.
Nowadays, nuns do a lot to keep the monastery running. They make organic cosmetics with herbs and olive oil and paint icons.An old fortress guards the city at the sea and great mount Ida at the South-East. This location makes Rethymno so peaceful. Life here is nice and leisurely. The old town of Rethymno is closed for cars, so it’s quiet, relaxed and a cup of coffee at one of the cafes here feels especially good.
Venetian Fortezza fortress was built in 1573-1590 and is one of the main sights of the city. There used to be many different household and administrative buildings on its territory: Episcopal palace, a principal’s house, barracks, churches, and even a theatre. It’s so huge that is considered to be the biggest of the Venetian fortresses.
You will also see the famous Rimondi fountain - the next symbol of Rethymno. Three lion heads are on its frontal plate, and water pours from them into three reservoirs. “LIBERALITATIS” and “FONTES” says the inscription, which means “Generous spring”.
Return to Chania region, travel time 1 hour 10 minutes.
