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Places near Church
The monastery of the Prophet Ilias is located just outside the village of Roustika (approximately 17km south-west of Rethymnon Town)
According to inscriptions on two bells on the site, work started on the existing monastery in 1637. However, when the Turks conquered the island in 1646 work on the monastery was halted. Construction resumed in 1667.
As with other monasteries in the region the monastery of Prophet Ilias played an important role as a centre of resistance during Turkish rule. The monastery thrived until 1821 when it was destroyed by the Turks. It was rebuilt in 1831, but was once again destroyed by the Turks in 1866.
Moundros or Velonado Gorge
Just east and parallel of the Kato Poros Gorge you find the Moundros Gorge. This gorge is located between the villages Moundros and Velonado, in Rethimno prefecture and about 30 km south west from Rethimno town.A beautiful gorge and very special is the colony of vultures living high in the rocks, by Rethymno area close to the village Moundros. There is a clear way marked path and also the long distance trail E4 runs through this gorge. As mentioned above this gorge can be combined with the Kato Poros gorge in a round walk. The abandoned village Nisi between the 2 gorges is worth visiting also.
The name Roustika comes from the Latin word RUSTIKUS. In the village, there is the famous monastery dedicated to the prophet Elijah (Profitis Ilias), built in 1200, as well as the Church of Panagia, dedicated to the Holly Mother, which was built in 1380.After a tiring but pleasant day, your stay at the traditional Cretan taverns and cafes are really compensating. During the summer, many traditional festivals take place in the nearby regions. Our guests have the opportunity to experience traditional Cretan music and dancing.