Guora gate, Crete Travel Guide

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Step through history at Rethymno's Guora Gate, the grand entrance to the enchanting Old Town and a reminder of the city's Venetian past.

The Guora Gate, also known as Megali Porta, is the only remaining part of Rethymno's Venetian fortifications. Built in the 16th century, it marks the entrance to the charming Old Town, inviting visitors to explore its historic streets and cultural treasures.

A brief summary to Guora gate

Antistaseos ke Dimakopoulou, Rethimno, 741 31, GR
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From Eve

Know before you go

Hi, I'm Eve. Here are a few practical things to know before exploring Guora gate.

Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for the best lighting for photographs and to avoid crowds.
Explore the narrow streets of the Old Town after passing through the gate to discover unique shops and local eateries.
Take a guided tour of Rethymno to learn more about the history of the city and the Venetian influence.

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Getting There

Walking

The Guora Gate is located in the heart of Rethymno's Old Town and is easily accessible by foot from most points within the city center. From the Rimondi Fountain, walk south along Ethnikis Antistaseos Street; the gate will be directly ahead. There are no costs associated with approaching the Guora Gate on foot.
Public Transport

If arriving by KTEL bus at the Rethymno bus station, walk towards the city center. Follow the main road (Kountourioti) towards the Old Town. Turn left onto Ethnikis Antistaseos Street. The Guora Gate will be on your right. Bus tickets within Rethymno typically cost around €1-€2. Taxis are readily available from the bus station, with a short ride to the Guora Gate costing approximately €5-€7.

Discover more about Guora gate

The Guora Gate, or Megali Porta as locals call it, stands as a proud testament to Rethymno's Venetian past. Constructed between 1566 and 1568, during the rule of Rector Giacomo Guoro, the gate served as the main entrance to the fortified city. It was part of a series of walls built over a 30-year period (1540-1570), designed by Michele Sanmicheli, though the designs were later simplified.Today, only the arch of the Guora Gate remains, offering a glimpse into the city's history. The gate's opening spans 2.6 meters and is crafted from carved stones, forming a semi-circular arch. Originally, the gate was more elaborate, featuring a cornice and pediment adorned with the Lion of St. Mark, the emblem of Venice. These details can no longer be seen at the gate, but fragmented remains of the relief are preserved in the courtyard of the Loggia.Passing through the Guora Gate is like stepping back in time. It leads directly into Rethymno's Old Town, a maze of narrow, cobblestone streets filled with shops, cafes, and historical sites. The gate is located on Ethnikis Antistaseos Street, which is lined with various establishments. Nearby, you can explore other historical landmarks such as the Fortezza, the Venetian harbor, the Rimondi Fountain, and numerous museums.