About this experience
I will introduce you to the beautiful and bloody history of Cretan Rethymno through references to the series 'Empire of Kosem'. You will see the ancient architecture of the Turkish period, learn how rebellious Crete welcomed invaders, and how the city's appearance changed thanks to a loving sultan. And even if you are not a fan of Turkish series, believe me: you will definitely enjoy figuring out where the real historical events are and where the myths and fabrications are. After all, we will do this right among the 'decorations' of the 'Magnificent Century'!
What to Expect
Ottomans and the Venetian Look of the City
First, you will visit the city port and the famous Fortezza fortress, which met the Turkish enemy during the defense of Crete, and understand the efforts it took for the Ottomans to conquer Rethymno. We will walk through the city streets, and you will notice how its appearance changed when Orthodox churches were transformed into mosques by the Turkish hand – treacherously, but aesthetically! You will be amazed by the Neratze Mosque and the Rethymnon Gates, learn the differences between Venetian arches and Turkish ones, and why a 'sahnisi' balcony is needed in the harem. The refined architecture of Rethymno and the main street of the ancient city, Arkadiou, which you will see on the walk, have not changed in the last hundred years.
Historical Figures, Intrigues, Harem, and Hamam
The history of any city is not only its buildings and monuments, but also the people who lived in it at different times. I will tell you about Sultan Ibrahim and the verifiable facts about the events in his harem, how he treated his loyal servant Yusuf Pasha, and what this ruler was famous for besides his loving nature. I will reveal to you the secret of who Turhan Sultan was, who suddenly appeared in the series, and how the arrival of her son Mehmed to power affected Rethymno. And while comparing truth and fiction, unraveling the intricacies of royal intrigues, we will be in a real Turkish hamam with a cup of aromatic coffee.
Organizational Details
Additional expenses: entrance to Fortezza fortress - 4 euros for adults over 18 years old; coffee - 2-3 euros.
