The history of ancient temples and monasteries is usually shrouded in secrets and legends. Modern researchers disagree on the basis of a particular architectural monument. But ordinary people are more interested not in dates, but in beautiful legends.
On the island of Crete, a legend was born long ago about a monk named Arkadius , who once discovered an Orthodox icon at the foot of Mount Ida, in an olive grove. A man, being a true believer, was not surprised at the unexpected find. He saw this as an omen from above. It was Arkadius who became the founder of the church, which later became part of one of the most famous monasteries of Crete . Arkadi - this name was given to the monastery.
Base
The history of the monastery of Arkadi (Crete) is filled with tragic events. But we will talk about this later. First, it is worth saying that the exact date of the foundation of the monastery is unknown. Moreover, there is no information about the century in which it was built. Arkadi Monastery (Crete) is located twenty- three kilometers from Rethymnon, on the slope of Mount Ida. Some researchers believe that it originated in the fifth century. Others argue much later in the tenth century. The latest version is more credible, because not so long ago an inscription was found that dates back to the X century.
Arkadi Monastery (Crete)
Most of the Greek population attends the Orthodox Church. Crete is a religious center. Arcadia Monastery is one of the most visited places. Moreover, there are not only believers from Greece, but also pilgrims from other countries. In addition, there are many tourists at the monastery at any time of the year, because this place has considerable interest from a historical point of view .
In general, it is worth saying that the temples located on the island are quite diverse in architectural terms. There are small churches and tall, majestic cathedrals. Arkadi Monastery Crimea is not just a monastery. This is a real symbol of freedom. Within the walls of this monastery once events took place that gained great importance in the history of the whole country.
Already in the early Middle Ages, the monks of the famous Cretan monastery raised luxurious vineyards, olive trees. Of course , they were engaged not only in economic affairs, but also in enlightenment. There were schools on the territory of the monastery, there was a huge library. Arkadi has become a kind of cultural center.
At the end of the 16th century, a huge cathedral was built on the slope of Mount Ida , combining several architectural directions. Fortunately, it has survived to this day. Today this temple is decorated with ships dedicated to St. Constantine and Elena. The solitary and creative monastic life was often violated by invaders, whom the beautiful island of Crete had haunted for many centuries.
Turkish occupation
The measured monastic existence was first broken in the middle of the 18th century. The Ottoman Empire at that time reached its peak, which did not weaken its desire for conquest. Rethymno fell under Turkish onslaught. The monks had to leave the monastery, however, at the request of the rector, the Ottoman Pasha did not begin to close Orthodox churches on the island. Soon services in the cathedral, which is located on the territory of Arkadi, were resumed. Even in those difficult times, bells rang in the vicinity of Ida.
Rebel heroes
The real feat within the walls of the legendary monastery was accomplished much later - in the sixties of the XIX century. About 15 thousand Turkish soldiers surrounded the monastery, in which the rebels took refuge, and among them were women and even children. The Turks managed to break through the defense. But the rebels did not give up. One of them managed to set fire to the powder depots that were on the territory of the monastery. The monastery flew into the air, burying thousands of people under it, among which were invaders and heroes, who defended their land until the last minute of their lives.
Already a few years after this tragic event, the monastery began to be restored. Today, the premises located on its territory are in excellent condition. However, on the site of the former powder warehouse, there are only ruins.
Reviews
The deaths of civilians that occurred within the walls of the monastery in the nineteenth century caused a wave of indignation . Later, a memorial plaque was installed on the site of the former warehouses. This, according to tourists reviews, is one of the most interesting places in Arkadi. Not far from the plaque, you can see a withered tree that was not cut down intentionally: a Turkish bullet is still stored in its trunk today. An unusual atmosphere reigns in the interior of the monastery. Ancient buildings are located in a fairly well-groomed area. There is also a small church shop where you can buy Orthodox icons.
How to get to the monastery of Arkadi (Crete)? It is more convenient, of course, to take an excursion route. But you can rent a car. The monastery is located in the northwestern part of the island, 80 km from Heraklion . On the north coast of the road, according to reviews, in good condition. Take the main highway. Those who live in Rethymnon need to go east, towards Heraklion . The fastest way to reach the monastery is via the federal highway. These are fairly well-known places, and therefore it is necessary to carefully follow the signs. In Stavromenos turn south, from this village to the monastery only 10 km.
Arkadi Monastery (Crete): days, opening hours
From December to March, the monastery is open daily from 9:00 to 16:00. From April to May and in October - from 9:00 to 17:00. In summer, the monastery closes at 8:00 in the evening. The opening hours of the Monastery of Arkadi (Crete) in November are from 9:00 to 17:00.