January 19, 2023 – Crete, Greece
The morning began with a colorful sunrise! We were anchored at the port in Heraklion Greece, which is on the island of Crete. Home to Zeus Crete is the fifth largest in the Mediterranean Sea
The day started with a trip to the Arkadi Monastery and the small resort village of Rethimno. This involved a bus trip of about and hour and a half affording great views of the island including the olive trees growing staggered on the mountains. Create is the 5th largest producer of olive oil in the world. Fun fact…..it takes 50 years for an olive tree to reach maximum production if it is watered and 100 years if it is not.
The Arkadi Monastery
When we arrived at the Monastery the winds were blowing so hard it almost knocked over some of the frailer passengers. While most headed to the Loo I began snapping pictures before my fellow tourist crowded the monastery
The wealthy monastery, which copied Greek manuscripts and created embroidered ecclesiastic items, boasts a Venetian style church in a fortress-like complex.
The monastery played an active role in the Cretan resistance of Ottoman rule during the Cretan revolt of 1866. 943 Greeks, mostly women and children, sought refuge in the monastery. After three days of battle and under orders from the abbot of the monastery, the Cretans blew up barrels of gunpowder, choosing to sacrifice themselves rather than surrender.
Back on the bus to head to Rethimno.
Rethimno
Rethymnon, has a well preserved Old Town, which was almost entirely built by Venetians. Within the narrow alleys there are buildings dating from the 16th century. The charming small Venetian harbor, has a lighthouse built is part of the fortress walls.
Because it is winter and this is a summer resort town most of the shops were closed but I had fun wandering around the town where I encountered some fun street art, children playing and the Funky Fish shop. Who knew that I owned a fish shop???
Back on the bus to head back to the port!
Heraklion
When we arrive back at the port it is almost 3:00 (tea time) and we had been exploring since 8:00 with only one loo break and no food. To say that everyone was anxious to get of the bus is an understatement. As everyone headed through security and the promise of a loo and teatime, I caught the shuttle bus into the town square of Heraklion.
The lion fountain the centerpiece of the town square dates back to the Venetian period and is connected to the original aqueducts.
Heading back to the docks I had just enough time to view The Koules (“Fort on the Sea” in Italian) a fortress located at the entrance of the old port. It was built by the Republic of Venice in the early 16th century, and is still in good condition today.
At this point I had to head back to the port for our 5:30 all aboard. My feet hit the gangplank at 5:28! A full day of adventuring ended with a beautiful sail away.
Next adventure is the Suez Canal!
Amazing day
Crete is one of my favorite places on earth. Too bad the time of year and weather did not work out. Nonetheless, I’m glad you toughed it out and got to see it.
Funky Fish. Somehow it doesn’t sound very good. But who knows, maybe franchising here in the U.S. is your next big adventure. Great story.
COOL!
This is where our daughter-in law’s family is from, so they spend a month or so there most every summer. Great beaches, food, archeology and local village customs and traditions. I’d love to spend a couple months!