The Monastery of Arkadi in Crete: Worth a Visit

Introduction

The serene landscape of Crete, Greece, hides stories of resilience, heroism, and the enduring spirit of freedom. In the heart of this Mediterranean island, the Sacred Monastery of Arkadi stands as a symbol of defiance against oppression and a testament to the unwavering spirit of the Cretan people.

In this comprehensive exploration, we delve into the captivating history of the Arkadi Monastery, chronicling eight centuries of its existence and its vital role in the fight for freedom. This blog will guide you through the founding of the monastery, its various periods of significance, and the heroic resistance that etched its name in history.

Foundation of Arkadi Monastery

The beginnings of Arkadi Monastery remain a mystery, making it difficult to determine its exact founding date. However, according to historical accounts, the origins of the monastery can be traced back to the 11th century AD and are attributed to a monk named Arkadios.

The monastery was initially dedicated to St. Constantine and St. Helen and comprised of a small church and accompanying cells. Over time, the small church was replaced by a grand double-aisle church in 1587, as evidenced by an inscription on the bell tower.

The transformation continued, and by 1600 AD, the castle monastery took on its current form with only minimal alterations.

The History of Arkadi Monastery

(An Integral Part of Cretan History)

The Sacred Monastery of Arkadi has been an unwavering presence in the life of Crete for eight centuries, seamlessly woven into the island's rich historical tapestry. It has played multifaceted roles that span education, manuscript copying, and craftsmanship.

Throughout its existence, the Arkadi Monastery has exemplified the Cretan spirit, standing as a beacon of hope in the darkest of times.

Education and Manuscript Copying 

Historical records reveal that the monastery served as a center of education and manuscript copy. In addition to spiritual pursuits, the monks of Arkadi dedicated themselves to the preservation of knowledge and culture. Manuscript copying was a thriving activity, and many of these priceless manuscripts still endure, some are even showcased in the Museum of the Monastery.

Craftsmanship and Gold Embroidery 

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Arkadi Monastery gained international acclaim for its gold embroidery workshops. The intricate and exquisite craftsmanship dazzled the world, and the vestments and fabrics adorned with gold and silver thread found their way into churches and monasteries worldwide. These exquisite pieces are lovingly preserved and displayed in the Museum of the Monastery.

Struggles and Heroism 

The Arkadi Monastery's history is punctuated by heroic struggles against oppressive conquerors. Notably, it made a significant contribution to the Greek Revolution of 1821, where the monks actively participated. However, the path to freedom was not without hardship. The monastery faced its first disaster during this period when it was looted, and the monks were forced to abandon it temporarily. Their resilience shone through as they returned to rebuild and continue their mission.

‍

Symbol of Freedom and Liberation

The Monastery of Arkadi stands as a symbol of freedom and the longing for liberation on the island of Crete, which endured two centuries of Ottoman rule. It was in 1572 that the monastery became a priory and the older church underwent reconstruction to its present form. The years of Ottoman rule were marked by multiple devastations and looting.

The great Cretan uprising of 1866 saw Abbot Gabriel Marinakis leading the monastery as a center of revolution. 

The Holocaust of November 8th, 1866

The Arkadi Monastery gained fame for its heroic resistance against the Ottoman conquerors. In 1866, during the Cretan Revolution against Ottoman imperialism, 964 fighters and villagers from nearby areas took shelter within the monastery's walls. They faced a dire struggle for survival and freedom while being enclosed within the monastery.

As a 15,000-strong Ottoman force, armed with 30 cannons, laid siege to the monastery, the Cretans valiantly defended their haven. Yet, the odds were stacked against them. The cannons breached the gates, and the Ottomans infiltrated the outer defenses. It was then that a fateful decision was made. In an act of compassion to prevent women and children from falling into the hands of the enemy, the gunpowder storeroom was ignited. The resulting explosion claimed the lives of all those inside the monastery, including most of the Ottoman soldiers. This was the Holocaust of Arkadi.

Since those fateful days, the monastery has been reconstructed by its original design, and Crete eventually achieved liberation in the early 20th century. The architectural style of the Monastery is reminiscent of a fortress, with a rectangular and well-preserved building complex at its core. The façade displays a blend of medieval Renaissance and mannerist elements, sculpted in white limestone. It bears the unmistakable influence of renowned Italian architects Andrea Palladio and Sebastiano Serlio.

‍

How to Get to Arkadi Monastery

(By Car and Bus)

If you're staying in or around Rethymno and would like to visit Arkadi Monastery, there are a few ways to get there. By car, you can take the Main National Road heading east towards Heraklion. After approximately 6 kilometers, take the Tsesme-Platania (or Adelianos Kampos) exit and switch to the Old National Road.
Continue driving for another 16 kilometers, and you'll arrive at the monastery. This journey usually takes around 30 to 45 minutes. The monastery has a large parking lot at the entrance, which is free for visitors.

If you prefer public transportation, several buses depart from Rethymno's Public Bus Station to Arkadi Monastery throughout the day. The trip usually takes around 40 minutes.

How to Get to Moni Arkadi From Chania

(Scenic Routes from Chania)

Driving from Chania to Arkadi Monastery is not only convenient but also offers breathtaking views of picturesque landscapes. Although the roads are generally easy to navigate, the mountainous terrain offers plenty of opportunities for photography enthusiasts to capture stunning shots. 

‍

The drive from Chania to the monastery typically takes around one and a half hours. However, it's worth considering the high season, which can result in traffic congestion and add extra travel time. Since Arkadi Monastery has significant historical value, it can attract a large number of visitors, particularly during July and August.

Location and Attraction

(The Holy Monastery of Arkadi in Rethymnon Crete)

The Monastery of Arkadi is located 23 kilometers southeast of Rethymno, on a high plateau situated 500 meters above sea level. It holds great historical significance and offers a stunning view of the surrounding landscape. The initial fortifications of the monastery believed to have been established by an Arkadian monk, date back to the 12th century.

The Monastery's centerpiece is a church dedicated to the Metamorphosis of Savior, St. Constantine, and St. Helen. The complex is designed like a fortress, with high walls that signify its historical importance.

The dress code is casual. If you plan on visiting Arkadi, please note that it is required to have your shoulders covered as well as your legs above the knees.

The entrance fee is 4 EUR per person and can pay by bank card.

What to See in Arkadi Monastery

(Exploring the Monastery's Treasures)

Arkadi Monastery is a must-visit for anyone interested in history and art. The monastery's central courtyard is surrounded by a fortified wall, and the Catholicon, also known as the Church of Arkadi Monastery, is located here. Built in the 16th century, the church showcases a blend of Baroque and Roman styles, highlighting the artistic trends of the Cretan Renaissance.
The south aisle of the church is dedicated to the Transfiguration of Christ, while the north honors Saints Constantine and Helen.

The museum inside the monastery's grounds houses a vast collection of religious and historical artifacts. These include portable Byzantine icons, manuscripts, gold-embroidered religious garments from the 17th century, and various relics from the revolutions that took place.

The refectory, where the monks had their meals, is a remarkable space dating back to 1687. The original furniture still bears the marks of bullets and swords from Ottoman attacks under its vaulted ceiling. Visiting this area provides an understanding of the difficulties faced by the monastery's defenders.

Outside the walls of the monastery, the ossuary, octagonal in shape, is a tribute to the Cretans who chose to die rather than surrender in 1866. Inside, dozens of skulls and bones pay reverence to the fierce battle fought against the Ottomans. An inscription commemorates their sacrifice, stating, "Nothing is more noble or glorious than dying for one's country."