Explorer Rethymno: The Historic Double Gate (St. Francis Gate) 🏛️

Key Information

• **Name:** St. Francis Gate (or Porta San Francesco), widely known as the **Double Gate (Diplí Pórtá)**.
• **Description:** One of the most impressive surviving sections of the **Venetian defensive wall** enclosure of Rethymno.
• **Dating:** Built in the **mid-16th century** (Venetian period).
• **Location:** Saint Francis Street, in Rethymno's Old Town, near Mikrasiaton Square.

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Dual Architecture: Venetian & Ottoman

The unique feature of the gate is its **dual appearance**, which reflects the cultural changes in Rethymno:

Section	Characteristics	Culture
**Inner Gate**	Pure **Venetian aesthetics**. Elaborate sculptures, reliefs, and the **Lions of the Most Serene Republic**, symbols of power and pride.	**Serenissima Republic**
**Outer Gate**	Added after the occupation (1646). Characterized by simple, **pointed arches**, showing Oriental influence.	**Ottoman Empire**

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Symbolism & Function

• **Symbolism:** It represents the **coexistence of two different cultures** (Serenissima Republic and Ottoman Empire) in a single architectural complex.
• **Function:** It served as the **main access road** from the Old Town towards the eastern side. It leads to Mikrasiaton Square and the Church of Saint Francis (Archaeological Museum).

It is a monument that offers a direct visual connection to the city's past.

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