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Church of Our Lady of the Angels: A Venetian Echo in Rethymno

Explore a historic Rethymno church, once a Venetian sanctuary and Ottoman mosque, now a serene Orthodox worship place with stunning art.

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The Church of Our Lady of the Angels, also known as Mikri Panagia (Little Virgin), stands as a testament to Rethymno's layered past. Built during the Venetian period, it has served as both a church and a mosque, reflecting the island's diverse cultural influences. Today, it welcomes visitors with its serene atmosphere and historical artwork.

A brief summary to Church of Our Lady of the Angels

  • Thessalonikis ke Foka, Rethimno, 741 31, GR

Local tips

  • Visit early or late in the day to avoid crowds and enjoy a peaceful experience.
  • Admire the detailed frescoes and woodwork inside the church.
  • Dress modestly as a sign of respect when visiting.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    The Church of Our Lady of the Angels is located in the heart of Rethymno's Old Town, making it easily accessible on foot from most central locations. From the Rimondi Fountain, walk east along Arkadiou Street, then turn right onto Nikiforou Foka street. The church will be on your left. No costs are involved.

  • Public Transport

    If arriving by bus at the Rethymno Central Bus Station, walk north towards the city center. Follow Emmanouil Kefalogianni Street, then turn left onto Arkadiou Street, and finally turn right onto Nikiforou Foka street. The church will be on your left. Local bus tickets cost approximately €1-€2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available throughout Rethymno. A short taxi ride from the Rethymno Central Bus Station or the Venetian Harbor to the Church of Our Lady of the Angels typically costs between €5-€8.

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Discover more about Church of Our Lady of the Angels

The Church of Our Lady of the Angels, or Mikri Panagia (Little Virgin Mary), is located in Rethymno's Old Town. This church, likely the oldest operating one in the city, offers a glimpse into the area's Venetian past. Originally built during the Venetian period (1205–1669), it was dedicated to Mary Magdalene by the Dominican Order. The church is distinguished from the city's metropolitan church, Megali Panagia (Great Virgin). During Ottoman rule, it was converted into a mosque in 1680, known as the Angebout Ahmet Pasha mosque. A minaret was added, but it soon collapsed, earning the mosque the nickname “koutsotroulis” (=limping dome). In 1917, it was re-established as a Christian church dedicated to the Virgin Mary of the Greek Orthodox. The church is a three-nave basilica without a dome, with a bell tower added later. Inside, the icon “Virgin Mary Undefiled” was once housed but is now in the Megali Panagia. This icon was also revered by the Muslims of Rethymno. Of particular interest is the icon of Saint Great Martyr Govdelaas Polyathlos from Persia on the church's left side. According to local folklore, during preparations for the Minor Asia campaign, a soldier dreamed of a woman in black who insisted on finding an image of the Virgin. Following her instructions, they discovered an icon of Panagia Odigitria (of She who Leads) dating back to 1850, which can be seen on the right icon stand today. The church celebrates the Annunciation to the Blessed Virgin Mary on March 25th. Visitors can appreciate the architecture, frescoes, and woodwork.

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