Venerato: The Venetian Lords' Retreat

Take a stroll through the central square, winding alleys, and charming neighborhoods, and you’ll feel like you’ve stepped back in time to the Venetian era!

Here, you’ll come across Minoan wine presses, Byzantine churches, and old factories (fábrikes). Follow the path towards the Venetsanos Gorge, and at the end of a lush, scenic route, visit the Monastery of Panagia Paliani. Don’t miss the chance to indulge in traditional dishes like pastitsio, moussaka, gemista, and charcoal-grilled meats at the village taverna. You can also stock up on Cretan specialties like barley rusks, kalitsounia (cheese pies), and baked goods from the local bakery.

In the area, you’ll find rakokazana (raki distilleries), wineries, and skilled artisans crafting wood carvings, icons, and jewelry. For a relaxing outing, visit the Sculpture Park just before the village, and don’t forget to admire the grand Venetian mansion, Serai.

Information: Visitheraklion

Photo: Wikipedia