21°C
A single-aisled basilica, dedicated to St. Francesco (Agios Franghiskos). It was built in the Venetian era by the Franciscan Order, and it stands out for its unique architecture and sculpted ornaments. The Turkish occupants turned it into a poorhouse in 1796, and founded a school for girls, right next to it. The ruins of two chapels can be seen to the East.
The element which distinguishes St. Francesco’s church among the monuments of the city is the Renaissance style carved door surround, at the entrance to the church, which is decorated with elaborate capitals of the Composite order.
Locals today also call it Mikri Panagia (= little [church of] Virgin Mary), in order to distinguish it from the Cathedral of Megali Panagia (= big [church of] Virgin Mary). It was built in the last years of the Venetian rule, by the Dominican Order, and it was dedicated to Mary Magdalene.
Although in the beginning of the Turkish rule it functioned as a Christian church, it soon followed the fate of most of the churches in the city: It was transformed into a mosque and a minaret was added to it; the top of the minaret was destined to collapse, though, so people gave it the name “koutsotroulis” (=half dome).In 1917 it began to operate as an Orthodox church, dedicated to Our Lady of the Angels (Virgin Mary).
Εκκλησία
Open-Well maintained
Ενετική Περίοδος
Πλατεία Μικρασιατών/Νικ. Φωκά, πόλη Ρεθύμνου
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For the Rural Greece accessibility is fundamental to enhancing an inclusive tourism experience. Following the principles of inclusion and equality, the epaithros Rural Tourism Network and its member businesses are constantly working to enhance the tourism services provided, ensuring that all visitors have the opportunity to experience the authentic beauty of the Greek countryside.
Sustainability in tourism refers to a way of developing tourism that respects and protects the environment while strengthening the local economy and preserving cultural traditions. The aim of sustainable tourism is to provide unique and authentic experiences for visitors without harming the natural and social environment, while ensuring that local communities benefit from tourism activity.
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With sustainable tourism, visitors can have authentic experiences, knowing that the impact of tourism on the region is positive and lasting for future generations.
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