Margarites

There are many stories about how this little village acquired its name and unsurprisingly enough almost all of them include daisies (= margarites)! No matter which story you like best, it is certain that you will find much of the same beauty in the village itself.

The village is famous for the art of pottery, which constitutes a local tradition since the Minoan days. The main reason behind the development of this art is the grounds' high concision of argil (clay). Today, the settlement constitutes one of the most important centers of pottery and ceramic art in Crete. It counts 17 workshops that operate as exhibitions, giving visitors the chance to watch experienced and skillful artificers making all sorts of ceramic items and imitations of ancient Minoan potteries.

What's more, in Margarites lays one of the most important monuments of Rethymno, the Late Minoan Vaulted Grave dated back to 1350 B.C.. It is a really special building in terms of architecture, a long downhill corridor with big sculptured stones conveys to the circle chamber of the central vault which is the main section of grave. In this grave, researchers have discovered the bones of four adults and two children. According to the findings, they belonged to individuals of upper society and religion hierarchy.

You can also visit the church of Saint Ioannis "Theologos", the oldest church in the village. Buried in the church yard there are some heroes of Arkadi. Indulge in the spirituality and the views of this village and feel you mind empty.