Cave & Traditional Village of Melidoni, Ceramics of Margarites and Arkadi Monastery!
The Arkadi Monastery, near Rethymno, is a handsome example of Renaissance architecture from Crete’s Venetian rule, but it also hides tales of extraordinary sacrifice during the revolution against the Ottomans.
The excursion to the Monastery of Arkadi and the traditional villages Melidoni and Margarites combines culture and Christian faith, tradition and history and takes the visitor back to different periods in time. During the trip you will admire amazing sceneries of the central part of Crete.
The Monastery of Arkadi was built in the 14th century and is the most important monastery in Crete. It became the symbol of the Cretan resistance for freedom during the revolution against the Turks in 1866.
We continue with the pottery village of Margarites, which is like an open museum with dozens of pottery shops and ceramic workshops. The craftsmen work at the clay in traditional techniques dating back to the Minoan era and we will have the opportunity to watch a demonstration at an artisan’s workshop and learn about the utility of the vessels from the past until today.
Melidoni Cave is one of the most important caves in Crete, due to its archeological findings and the tragic role that it has played in the history of the Cretan revolution against the Turks. In the cave of Melidoni we can admire the abundance of stalactites and stalagmites that create high pillars all around the cave.
We will stroll around the narrow streets at the traditional village of Melidoni and admire Venetian and Ottoman stone buildings of 17th and 18th centuries and a beautifully decorated orthodox church.
Panormo Village & Bali Village.
Also, we pick up from the hotels of area Panormo village: Europa Resort, Stella beach, The Royal Senses Resort & Spa Curio Collection by Hilton, The Royal Blue Resort, Grecotel Marine Palace & Aqua Park, Iberostar Creta Panorama & Mare, Iberostar Creta Marine, Creta Royal, Akontio, Panorama SeaFront, Lameriana Secret Village and from all Panormo’s Villas, Apartments, Studios and Suites.
From the area Bali – Vlichada village also we pick up from the hotels: Ormos Atalia, Filion Suites Resort & Spa, Evita Beach, Stone Village, Valentino Apartments and Studios, T- hotel Premium Suites, Pantheon Villas & Suites and from all Bali – Vlichada Villas, Apartments, Studios and Suites.
08:00-14:00
By our express mini & midi buses, we drive directly to the destination, without tedious passenger pick-ups, saving up to two hours on journey time.
The above excursion or more destinations could be offered also for private groups.
A peaceful, sad place when you read the history. This helps to understand the Cretan mentality of fierce pride and independence. Snack bar outside is very welcome on hot days, beautiful views down the valley.
