The Renaissance Festival

Since 1987 the famous Renaissance Festival has been organised by the Municipality of Rethymno every summer. As both the architecture and the literature of the Renaissance served as a pedestal for the development of the town of Rethymno, it was normal that the town should became the main sponsor of a variety of events aiming at the promotion of both the Cretan and European Renaissance.

Over the course of the years, all the works of Cretan playwrights have been staged, as well as a large number of plays by Shakespeare, Moliere, Goldoni and others. Furthermore, musicians from all over the world have come to Rethymno to play music, starting from the period of the Renaissance to the modern times. There were « Comedia del arte » performances in the narrow streets and alleys of the old town. Dancing performances, art exhibitions, speeches and films are also included in the festive activities. Almost all the performances take place in the « Erofili » Theatre of the Fortress. Walking to « Fortezza » in a summer evening to enjoy a theatre performance or a music concert is a blissful experience.