Arkadi Monastery
Arkadi Monastery: A Symbol of Cretan Resistance
Arkadi Monastery is located approximately 23 kilometers southeast of Rethymno and is one of Crete’s most significant historical and religious landmarks. Known for its stunning architecture and heroic role in the island’s history, the monastery is a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to explore Crete’s rich cultural heritage.
The monastery’s origin
Its origins are somewhat shrouded in mystery, with historical accounts suggesting that it was founded around the 11th century AD by a monk named Arkadios.
Another source suggests that it was built by the Byzantine Emperor Arkadios in the 12th century.
The monastery was initially dedicated to Saint Constantine and Saint Helen, and it has undergone significant transformations over the centuries, particularly with the construction of its current church, which was completed in 1587.
Architectural Features
The Arkadi monastery complex is fortified, featuring thick walls that create a sense of security and isolation, ideal for its historical role as a refuge.
The central courtyard is surrounded by various buildings that served different purposes, including monks’ cells, a refectory, and storage rooms.
Its impressive double-aisled church, known as the Catholicon, showcases a blend of Baroque, Venetian and Renaissance architectural styles, reflecting the artistic trends of the Cretan Renaissance.
Its grand façade, featuring elaborate details and symmetrical design, stands as a testament to its historical importance.
Throughout its history, Arkadi Monastery supported its nearby communities and has served as a school, spiritual center and a place of refuge during periods of conflict.
Notable features include:
- Bell Tower: A striking element of the monastery’s façade.
- Interior of Katholikon: Its striking Venetian-style architecture, adorned with carvings and intricate details, is awe-inspiring. Inside, visitors can admire religious icons, frescos, and artifacts.
- The Powder Room: The historic powder room, where the heroic explosion took place, is a solemn site that evokes the bravery of those who perished. A plaque commemorates the event, ensuring that their sacrifice is never forgotten.
- Museum: The monastery houses a small museum featuring religious artifacts, manuscripts, and relics related to the Cretan resistance. Highlights include 18th-century vestments and icons that offer a glimpse into the monastery’s spiritual and cultural significance.
- Gardens/Courtyard: The monastery’s lush courtyard, with its ancient olive trees and blooming flowers, provides a peaceful contrast to its somber history. The surrounding buildings, such as the monk’s quarters and workshops, offer insight into monastic life.
Today, Arkadi Monastery is a protected monument of the Greek state and attracts many visitors from all over the world. The monastery is still home to a small community of monks, and visitors can see most of the monastery premises.
history
Arkadi Monastery is not only an architectural marvel but also a symbol of resistance and sacrifice. During the Cretan Revolution of 1866, it became a crucial stronghold for Cretan rebels fighting against Ottoman rule. The monastery was called Tsanli Manastir by the Turks (meaning beneficiary bell), as the Arkadi monastery was the only Cretan monastery that had the right to ring its bells.
On the 1st of May 1866, the Arkadi monastery hosted 1500 Cretan rebels who elected leaders for the nearby provinces.
As leader of the Rethymnon Commission, the abbot of the monastery was elected, Gabriel Marinakis.
When Ishmael Pasha was informed of these events and demanded from the abbot to expel the rebels from the monastery or he would completely destroy it, a demand that was immediately declined.
Ishmael Pasha then gathered troops consisting of 6.000 infantry Turks, 200 horsemen, 1.200 Albanian troops, and 30 cannons and marched towards Arkadi.
The monastery was besieged by Ottoman forces for almost 3 days, leading to a tragic event known as the Arkadi Holocaust, where many Cretans chose death over surrender (over 900 men, women and children).
When the Turks managed to invade the monastery, the remaining Cretans gathered in the gunpowder storage in the cellar and imploded themselves to avoid capture.
This act of defiance has immortalized Arkadi as a symbol of freedom and heroism in Greek history.
Nowadays, UNESCO has designated Arkadi as a European Freedom Monument.
The flag belonged to chieftain Daskalakis and bears the inscription Ι[ΗΣΟΥ]Σ Χ[ΡΙΣΤΟ]Σ, ΝΙ ΚΑ (Jesus Christ wins) and the initials “K, E, E, Θ,” which stand for Crete, Union, Freedom or Death.
The bloodstained flag was saved thanks to the heroic defence of the besieged monks and fighters during the holocaust of the Arkadi Monastery.
The events that took place in the Arkadi Monastery marked the great Cretan Revolt of 1866–1869 and raised international sympathy for the Cretan struggle.
The flag is currently at the National Museum of Greece in Athens.
The monastery today
Today, the Sacred Monastery of Arkadi observes the canonical rules of the Orthodox Church, both as a fully operating monastery and as a pilgrimage destination of religious tourism. Seven monks live, work and serve the church in the monastic cells of Christ the Savior, St. Constantine and his mother, St. Helen.
Timetable & Ticket
Arkadi monastery opening hours
October from 09:00 to 18:00
November from 09:00 to 17:00
March from 09:00 to 18:00
April - May from 09:00 to 19:00
June - July - August from 09:00 to 20:00
The above hours are valid daily, from Monday to Sunday.
From April to October, the museum and the entrance to the monastery are open daily.
On Sundays and holidays, the museum opens after the end of the Sunday Service.
Holy services are held daily in the monastery according to the Orthodox ecclesiastical ritual. The morning service is held at 06:00 a.m. and the afternoon service at 05:00 p.m.
Entrance fee: A modest fee (around €4) is charged; payment can typically be made by card.
Additional Information
Celebrations
The monastery celebrates 3 times during the year:
May 21st, for the right transept of the Main (Catholic) Church that is dedicated to the Equal-to-the-Apostles St. Constantine and St. Helen.
August 6th, for the left transept of the Main (Catholic) Church that is dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ the Savior.
November 8th (Archangels Michael and Gabriel), celebrating the Holocaust of the Sacred Monastery of Arkadi in 1866, where the heroes who defended the monastery set fire to the powder keg and exploded to avoid falling in the hands of the Turkish besiegers.
THINGS TO SEE AND DO at Arkadi Monastery
Admire the Architecture
Get inside the main church
Walk around the courtyard
Visit the Museum and Library
Explore the surrounding area
Inspect the Powder Room
Take photos
Take a break at the cafe- restaurant
Attend a service or a festival
How to Get There
By Car:
The monastery is about 23 kilometers southeast of Rethymno. From the city, take the road toward Tsesmes, following signs for Arkadi. The scenic drive through olive groves and villages is an added bonus.
By Public Transport:
Bus services connect Rethymno with Arkadi Monastery, but schedules may vary. Check local timetables for the latest information.
Guided Tours:
Many organized tours include Arkadi Monastery as part of a cultural itinerary, often combining it with nearby attractions like Margarites or Eleutherna.
By taxi:
You can always choose to get a taxi or a private transfer to the monastery. We can’t be sure about the cost of the trip.
Conclusion
Arkadi Monastery is much more than a historical landmark—it’s a living testament to Crete’s enduring spirit and cultural richness. From its stunning architecture to its heroic past, the monastery offers a deeply moving experience for visitors. Combine your visit with the surrounding attractions, and you’ll leave with a profound appreciation for this remarkable part of Crete.
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January 11, 2025
