Part 5/8:
A visit to Rethymno would be incomplete without acknowledging the historical significance of Arkadi Monastery, which stands as a powerful symbol of the Cretan revolt against the Ottoman Empire. The monastery's fortress-like façade houses a poignant history, having served as a refuge for Cretan soldiers during times of conflict.
Exploring the grounds, one learns about the events of 1866, where soldiers chose a deadly act of defiance over surrender. Remnant scars from the siege, such as a cypress tree bearing a lodged bullet, pay homage to the resolve of those who fought for freedom. An on-site memorial housing skulls and bones of victims reinforces the somber yet vital significance of this historical site.