Rethymno (Crete Greece)

Rethymno (aka Rethimno, Rhíthymnos) is a port town on Crete Island (Greece), with population around 38,000. It was built on the sites of the Minoan cities Rhithymna and Arsinoe.

Rethymno entered a period of growth when Repubblica Veneta (Republic of Venice / 697–1797) conquered Crete and decided to develop a commercial port between Heraklion and Chania. Rethymno's old town is one of Crete's best-preserved. It was almost almost entirely built by the Venetians and features arched doorways, narrow streets, stone staircases, Byzantine and Roman remains, small harbour, citadel (Fortezza castle).

Rethymno was captured by Ottoman turks in 1646, renamed Resmo and remained under their rule until 19th century. City's economy is based on tourism and agriculture (mainly olive oil). Annually, here is held a Wine Festival (in July).