A visit to Arkadi Monastery, in Rethymno, is an experience that shouldn’t miss on your Crete trip. A place so beautiful and yet so deeply marked by the Cretan struggle for freedom. Arkadi Monastery is a helpful instrument to understand Crete, as well as its people, character, and history.
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Travel Resources to Visit Arkadi Monastery
ARE YOU PLANNING YOUR TRIP TO CRETE LAST MINUTE?
Be sure to book accommodation and tours in Crete ahead of time to ensure availability!
📍 These are some of the tours I recommend on the island:
– Full-day Samaria Gorge trek (#1 tour in Crete!)
– Boat cruise to Balos Lagoon & Gramvousa (top-selling tour!)
– Ticket to Knossos Archaeological Site (top tour in Heraklion)
– Day trip to Elafonisi (a must in Chania!)
🛌 These are three convenient hotels in Crete:
– Lyttos Beach (beachfront in Hersonissos, near Heraklion)
– SanSal Boutique Hotel (near Chania Old Town with a pool!)
– Grecotel Lux Me White Palace (beachfront in Rethymnon)
Remember that the best way to get around Crete is by car. Check rental car rates for Crete here.
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General Information About Moni Arkadi
The Holy Monastery of Arkadi in Rethymno is one of those places that I strongly recommend you include in your Rethymno itinerary even if it’s a short one.
The monastery has long been an integral part of Crete’s history and fights for freedom. Located in the Rethymnon region, it is one of the key historic sites you can visit on the island
How to Get to Arkadi Monastery from Rethymnon
By car: Those staying in or near Rethymno should get on the Main National Road and drive in the direction of Heraklion (East) for no more than 6 km until the exit Tsesme-Platania (or Adelianos Kampos).
Once there, switch to the Old National Road and drive for 16 km more, until reaching the monastery, the whole drive is from 30 to 45 minutes. There’s a large parking lot (free) at the entrance of the monastery.
By bus: Buses to Arkadi Monastery depart from Rethymno’s Public Bus Station, 2-3 times a day. The trip lasts about 40 minutes. You can visit the website and check the schedules here.
>> This guide with tips for driving in Crete is an essential read. It includes info about renting a car, overtaking on the highway, and more suggestions for a perfect road trip on the island.
Which car rental service is the best to choose?
If you want to rent a car for your trip, consider Discover Cars, a worldwide car rental booking service.
How to Get to Moni Arkadi From Chania
It’s very easy to reach the Arkadi Monastery in Rethymno both from Chania and Heraklion.
In general, the roads are not difficult and the mountain landscape when accessing the site is breathtaking. Plan plenty of photography stops!
It will take you about one hour and a half to reach the monastery from Chania, always take into account that if you’re driving during the high season, roads might be trafficked and therefore you might need some extra time.
Besides, being Arkadi such an important religious place on the island, it’s common for it to be crowded not just in July and August.
How to Get to Arkadi Monastery From Heraklion
Another beautiful road trip, that might take you approximately one and a half hours on the coastal road. If you have time to explore a bit more, try discovering some mountain villages on your way.
Stopping in villages such as Anogeia, Axos, or Zoniana can be a good idea.
You might also want to check out the best rental homes in Rethymnon.
VISIT ARKADI MONASTERY:
Opening Hours: April – October: 9.00-18.00 | November – March: 9.00-16.00
Entrance fee: 3.00 € (full ticket), free for local citizens.
The Turkish Occupation of Crete and Arkadi
By the end of 1648, most of Crete was under Ottoman control. A conquest followed by incredible destruction.
They looted buildings and churches, which were later converted into mosques.
The destructive rage of the conquerors didn’t stop there, targeting roads, houses, and local businesses.
Many islanders escaped avoiding execution or imprisonment, while others fled to the mountains.
Ottoman rulers and settlers forced the shrinking Christian population into further misery and despair, imposing high taxes and confiscating lands.
The local uprising took place on several occasions but they were inevitably followed by strict countermeasures and oppression.
You might also want to read about The Most Beautiful Monasteries in Crete.
The History Behind Arkadi Monastery
The need for a revolution felt stronger and spread in the area. Arkadi was its soul. It became the center of the Cretan revolution.
Anger made the Ottomans vandalize the area, forcing the villagers to seek refuge behind the walls of the Monastery of Arkadi.
Almost a thousand refugees, mostly women, and children underwent an Ottoman attack. Upon the request to surrender, their only reply was “We’d rather have war.”
The Holocaust of Arkadi Monastery was a tragic symbol of the Cretan struggle for independence.
Hundreds of women and children were locked inside the gunpowder store blowing it up and taking hundreds of Ottoman soldiers with them to the grave.
After years of struggle, the Ottoman forces were expelled in 1898 and the Cretan Republic was declared independent.
The union of Crete with Greece became a reality in 1913.
The walls of Arkadi enclose the cells belonging to the monks, a well-kept garden as well as the magnificent Baroque church with an impressive bell tower.
Inside, icons and paintings both belong to the Byzantine school and the Cretan Renaissance.
It’s also possible to visit the museum, where there are a lot of interesting exhibits related to Crete’s fight for independence. Also, pay a visit to the kitchen and the refectory.
Once outside, you can also take a look at the Ossuary containing the rest of some of the people that perished in this massacre.
Plan the Visit: What to See in Arkadi Monastery, Rethymno
These things should be on your list of places to see when visiting Arkadi…
The Church of Arkadi Monastery
Also known as Catholicon, the church stands in the central court of the monastery, and together with the whole complex, it is surrounded by a thick, fortified wall.
It was built in the 16th century with strong Baroque and Roman components, quite typical of the Cretan Renaissance.
The Museum of Moni Arkadi
The museum, which develops at different levels, includes a rich collection of Icons as well as manuscripts, books, and engravings. In the museum, it’s also possible to see a selection of impressive religious clothing.
The Refectory
The impressive space devoted to the monk’s meals dates back to 1687. Under its vaulted ceiling, it’s possible to see the old, original furniture still bearing the marks of the bullets and swords belonging to the Ottoman attacks.
From the refectory, you can reach the kitchen to admire the big oven and fireplace, as well as some pieces of pottery used to prepare the meals.
The Ossuary
The octagonal building that houses the ossuary is located outside the walls of the monastery, right in front of the parking lot. The site remembers those Cretans who chose to die rather than surrender to the Ottomans (1866).
In this small construction, dozens of skulls and other bones bear the marks of the battle made by the Turks. Finally, an inscription commemorating the massacre reads Nothing is more noble or glorious than dying for one’s country.
The Importance of Arkadi Monastery in Crete’s History
It’s worth remembering that, even though still many years had to go by until Crete would find itself free from the Ottoman rule, the massacre of Arkadi had remarkable importance.
Back in the day, in many European countries, different movements appeared intending to support Crete in getting rid of Turkish domination.
Have you ever visited Arkadi Monastery?
Best Organized Tour to Visit Arkadi Monastery
Although the road to Arkadi is quite straightforward from Rethymnon, you may not feel comfortable driving in Crete. However, it would be a pity to miss the visit.
For that reason, I’ve gathered below three of the best tours of Arkadi.
- Private Trip Arkadi – Eleftherna – Margarites – Melidoni: This private tour is worth the price if you’re traveling in a group and can share the costs. It’s a whole-day trip that takes you to visit all of the most important landmarks in the Rethymnon area, and not just Arkadi. You will also visit the archaeological site of Eleftherna, the ceramic village of Margarites, and the impressive Melidoni Cave. This is a great value-for-money option.
BOOK THIS TOUR NOW
- Margarites, Arkadi Monastery, Thronos: Another excellent opportunity to discover more than one place in a day, this trip is perfect to visit the Panagia Church in Tronos (in the Valley of Amari) other than Arkadi and the pottery village of Margarites.
BOOK THIS TOUR NOW
- Arkadi Monastery e-Bike Tour with Lunch: The most affordable option is ideal for those wanting to ride an E-bike in the Rethymnon landscape for about 44 kilometers. The trip takes you to Arkadi Monastery, and -later on- to enjoy an authentic Cretan lunch.
BOOK THIS TOUR NOW
Read more about Crete
More Resources to Enhance Your Crete Adventure
I’ve got some excellent travel resources to make your adventure unforgettable! Start by checking out my ultimate guide to planning your trip to Crete, packed with helpful essential information. Remember to explore the articles on prices in Crete, common mistakes to avoid, and insider secrets for an unforgettable experience.
Once you’re ready to pack, use this comprehensive Crete packing list to ensure you have everything you need for a fantastic vacation.
Still finalizing your itinerary? Explore the best places to visit on Crete Island, discover my tours and activities, be amazed at Crete’s incredible beaches, and check out the best times to experience its beauty.
If you are exploring specific areas like Rethymnon or Chania, I’ve got detailed guides to help you make the most of your time. Stay tuned for our upcoming articles featuring the top things to do and detailed itineraries for your Crete getaway!
Suggested Accommodation in Rethymnon
No time to read all my accommodation guides? Check out these hotels in the city:
- Affordable: Faros Rooms and Suites in town.
- Mid-range: Hotel Olympia near the city beach.
- Luxury: Palazzino di Corina in the old town.
- Check also these Rental Homes in Rethymnon and this Rethymnon Hotel Guide.
More Useful Travel Resources
- Check out all the digital travel guides I’ve specifically written about Crete. They are affordable and practical to check from your mobile.
- Look for cheap flights with CheapOAir or find convenient ferry tickets with Ferryhopper.
- Welcome Pickups offers a convenient pre-paid airport transfer service, while Discover Cars is my favorite engine for finding a rental car on the island.
- Need cash? I’ve been using Wise in Crete for ages! It’s one of the best cards for overseas travel.
- Finally, to book adventures, tours, and cultural experiences, I always recommend Get Your Guide.
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About my blog:
I moved to Crete in 2016. During these years, I learned so much about the island! In Crete, I juggle being a solo mom, hosting culinary tours, and writing for several travel media. I’ve written for Greek Reporter, published travel guides about Greece, co-authored DK Eyewitness Top 10 Crete, and had more glasses of frappe than any regular person could ever handle.
Love your blog. I hadn’t heard about Arkadi until this post. You’ve shared your throng experience very well:)
Thank you so much for such a nice comment. Happy you like it!