The “ARKADIA” run has been organized for more than 80 years and consists of one of the oldest happenings in terms of historical sporting events in Greece and Europe. Hundreds of athletes and volunteers from Rethymno, Crete, and the whole of Greece honor annually the memory of the self-sacrificed heroic defenders of Arkadi Monastery. A route of great natural and cultural interest, which can be accomplished by walking as well.
The route begins either at Arkadi monastery or from Rethymno. It passes through the village of Amnatos, a beautiful village with many Venetian mansions, the most notable one being the Sanguinatsu family villa that preserves a beautiful Venetian doorway with the inscription: “INITIUM SAPIENTE TIMOR DOMINI” (Wisdom is the Fear of the Lord). There is also a Folk Art Museum and the School Museum. The view into Rethymno's valley from this village is amazing.
Kirianna is the next village. In this historic village, there are several old temples as well as modern ones. There are samples of scarce architectural elements of the Renaissance style and also the Byzantine church of Panagia. This church has adorned the village from the beginning of the 11th century and is one of the most interesting examples of ecclesiastical architecture in Crete.
Then the road leads toward the picturesque villages of Loutra, Pigi, and Adele.
Distance: 22,4 km
