In 2020, on our way from Panormos in the north to Spili located in south, we took a route via Margarites and Moni Arkadi. Not only was the drive incredibly scenic, but the two destinations en route were very much worth stopping by- and we’d recommend the same to any visitor.
Located a 25 or so minute drive away from each other, Margarites offers a great variety of traditional pottery pieces to either buy for yourself or bring back as gifts. The bright colours, huge variety on offer and intricate details make for a really exciting shopping experience. On the other hand, a visit to Moni Arkadi is more thought provoking and will leave you feeling serene.
Margarites
If you are into pottery or would like to bring back some souvenirs which are more unique and useful than those in typical tourist shops, we would recommend a trip to Margarites. We have been here at least three times and will most definitely come back at some point! The village is located around 25km east of Rethymnon so is quite easy to get to.
Pottery in Margarites
Agios Ioannis Theologos Church in Margarites
Margarites is a very quaint and scenic small village located on an edge of a ravine, with a stunning, windy drive leading up to it. The village has a long tradition of pottery making, and there are still many workshops you can see in operation.
It is certainly worth walking around and looking at the beautiful pottery dotted around, as well as the architecture throughout- there are some small windy streets and beautiful churches, and numerous options for a cofee or something more substantial.
Some pottery at Olga Dandoloy Ceramics in Margarites
When we visit Margarites, we usually park at a small car park near to Taverna- cafe Vrisi. On our first visit, we explored the village and popped into numeorus shops, however on our return trips we just visit the Olga Dandoloy Ceramics. Here, we have found there to be many options- ranging from plates and coasters to mobiles and figurines. The quality of the pottery pieces is very good, and the prices very reasonable. We’ve managed to bring back to the UK quite a few plates and bowls, making for a beautiful collection that always impresses our guests whenever these are served.
Olga Dandoloy Ceramics in Margarites
Pottery in Margarites
Moni Arkadi
Located around 23km south of Rethymno, Moni Archadi is an incredibly beautiful yet sad memory to the country’s struggle against the Ottoman rule in 1866, when almost a thousand Cretans hid in the monastery during this time to protect themselves and also fight back. For a period of two days, the Cretans fought back bravely, and some even sacrificed themselves in the powder keg room. It was this particular event that served as an awakening across Europe of the trials the Cretans were going through to seek indepedence. To read more about the history of Moni Arkadi and their battle for independence, click here.
Entrance to Moni Arkadi and the parking area
Despite the battles, the majority of the buildings were unscatheded, and these to this day are very striking. Te location of the monastery itself very scenic as it is located in a fertile plateau and there are beautiful views around. There are also various hikes that you can do nearby- unfrotunately we haven’t had the chance to do this yet but hopefully one day!
An example of a monastic cell in Moni Arkadi
Old Windmill at Moni Arkadi
Today the monastery is a working monastery and is a pilgrimage destination. Visiting the monastery is very simple- it is open daily for most of the year (see here for opening times), and the monastery can easily be reached by car or by bus from Rethymno. And there is plenty of space for parking. On site you can also find a really well-stocked gift shop- with both religious artefacts, icons and books and also some more touristy souvenirs.
The double- aisle church at Moni Arkadi
Above: Dining area
Left: Entrance to the monks’ cells
Perhaps the most striking view is that of the main church stood in the middle of the courtyard. The church has elements of both baroque and Roman elements and is beautiful. It is a double-asile church, dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ the Savior and to St. Constantine and St. Helen. It was build back in the 16th century, on a place of where a smaller church used to stand dating back to a few centuries prior.
As well as visiting the main church, you can see the historic dining room, the cellars and the Museum and Art gallery. Within the art gallery you can see artwork from both the past and more recent pieces, and the museum itself was only recently opened to commemorate 150 years since the events of 1886.
Another important and striking part of the monastery is the cypress-tree which is centruries old, standing in the yard. In the battle of 1866, this tree was injured and serves as a reminder of the tragic events of the day.
Above: Above and below: Artefacts at the Museum and Art Gallery
Left: The Tree and Bullet
The West Gate at Moni Arkadi
0 Comments