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Moni Preveli

 

 

Moni (Monastery of) Preveli is located 37 km south of Rethymnon city, isolated on a magisterial landscape.

There are lots of legends concerning the foundation of the monastery is believed that started during the Venetian occupation, although there are lots of different legends about it.

 

Due to its geographical position, it played an important role in Cretan revolts against occupying forces e.g. against the Nazis in World War II. It consists of  "Pisso Monastiri" and "Kato Monastiri" and there is a distance of about 2 kilometers between these two buildings. The Museum of the monastery exhibits many valuable religious relics.

Very close to Moni Preveli is one of the most famous sights in Crete, the Palm Beach of Preveli, a sandy cove at the end of Kourtaliotiko gorge and an area of outstanding natural beauty. "Megapotamos" river formed by the gorge ends at the Libyan Sea and creates a tropical  blue-green lake and small waterfalls. The Palm forest with its rich vegetation along the bank of the river completes this exotic scene and offers enchanting walks through its paths and cooling shade in summer.

Canoes and pedal boats are available to rent and cross through this exotic lake.

 

Where the river unites with the sea, there is a crystal clear beach of green-blue colours organized with umbrellas and beach chairs and a canteen selling soft drinks, sandwiches and small meals.

Visitors can come to Preveli Palm Beach either on foot or by small cruise boat from Plakias and Agia Galini.


Unfortunately in August 2010 the Preveli palm forest was burned. The authorities are optimistic for the quick restoration of the palm forest.

 

 

 

Published in Rethymnon Area