Discover Petres: Coast and Cultural Heritage

Petrés is a small coastal settlement with a sandy beach and rocky seabed. The area is dotted with many small coves. This means that different landscapes meet at this coastal destination: the sandy beach and the rocky terrain beneath the water’s surface. The beach is in the Δημοτική Ενότητα Λαππαίων (Municipal Unit of Lappaíon).

Coast, Coves and Petre Gorge

The beach’s main cove is developed and has several facilities. It lies next to the outlet of Petre Gorge. Both the beach and the settlement take their name from the gorge. The coast and Petre Gorge meet at the main cove.

In the area near the destination, small pools form in Petre Gorge, where you can enjoy a swim in summer. At one point, large rocks require some climbing. This natural area is therefore different from the beach: here, the pools and rocks take centre stage, while the beach is defined by its coastal cove. If you are planning to visit the gorge, check local conditions. When planning with children, it helps to bear this difference in mind; some climbing is required at one point.

The Church of Petrés and Its Feast Day

The Church of Petrés is dedicated to Panagia Pammakaristos or Kalotaxidiotissa and is also known as Panagia Protoptemvriani. It was built near the ruins of an older temple. According to tradition, this temple was also called Panagia Protoptemvriani. The feast day of the Church of Petrés takes place on 1 September and attracts many pilgrims. The different names and proximity to the older temple ruins give the place a distinctive historical dimension. The date of the feast and the pilgrims who attend make 1 September a special cultural reference point.

Culture in the Wider Destination of Rethymno

In the wider destination of Rethymno, the old town offers another historical focal point. It is designated as a protected historic monument and a traditional settlement. Its urban layout took shape during the Venetian period and was later altered during Turkish rule. The historic city centre lies below the Venetian Fortezza fortress. These features give the urban area a character distinct from the coastal setting of Petrés.

The museums in Rethymno also offer different perspectives on history. Since 1991, the Archaeological Museum has been housed in a pentagonal building in front of the main entrance to the Fortezza. Its exhibitions cover the history of the prefecture from the Neolithic period to Roman times. The Historical and Folklore Museum is housed in a Venetian mansion dating from the 17th century. Five rooms in its permanent exhibition display traditional crafts and folk art.

The regional cultural programme also includes recurring events: the Rethymno Renaissance Festival is held every summer, with music, theatre and dance performances, as well as art exhibitions. The Rethymno Carnival is a traditional event featuring a parade organised each year by volunteers.

Discover More Destinations

Discover more destinations: Platanos, Drosia, Kouloukonas, Adele, Platanés, Roumeli, Asteri, Akoumia.

To the wider travel guide: Rethymno.