Welcome to
Canvas by Mitsis Cretan Village

Welcome to
Mitsis Selection Rinela

The premium 5* ultra all-inclusive beach resort in Crete

Mitsis Selection Laguna is an award-winning, ultra all-inclusive 24h 5* beachfront resort in Crete and a member of the Mitsis Selection.

It features 351 luxurious rooms set around an impressive Venice-style pool landscape, including heated outdoor pools for added comfort throughout the season.

Guests can indulge in 5 themed à la carte restaurants, 3 food outlets, and 7 inviting bars, all nestled within a beautiful setting ideal for unforgettable moments.

Guests can unwind at the state-of-the-art spa, enjoy premium concierge and transfer services, and immerse themselves in a world of comfort, flavours, and heartfelt hospitality.

The resort is ideally located on the beach and conveniently close to Heraklion Airport.

Free Airport Transfer from Heraklion Airport, available exclusively for online bookings made through www.mitsis.com.

Welcome to your trusted taxi and transfer service based in Chania, offering seamless transportation across all of Crete. Whether you need transfers to and from Crete’s airports—Chania, Heraklion, Sitia, or Souda—or from any of the ports to your hotel, villa, or other tourist destinations, we’ve got you covered.

Our professional drivers provide safe, comfortable, and punctual rides tailored to your schedule. We proudly serve all hotels, private villas, resorts, and vacation rentals across the island, ensuring a hassle-free experience from the moment you land.

In addition to transfers, we organize full-day excursions to Crete’s most popular beaches, stunning gorges, fascinating museums, and famous landmarks. Discover the beauty of Crete with personalized trips designed just for you.

Available 24/7, our service guarantees round-the-clock support to meet your travel needs at any time.

Choose us for trustworthy, convenient, and flexible transportation throughout Crete!

5 Star Tourism –StarCreteTransfers.gr- was conceived and founded by a team of local taxi owners with many years of experience in the transport sector.

As a result, we offer dependable services of all customers and the unforgettable experience of the Cretan hospitality.

We now provide an unrivaled choice of services and destinations ranging from airport transfers, VIP or low cost, to daily excursions across the island.

Our highly experienced and friendly English-speaking drivers are committed to providing you with a comfortable and reliable transportation.

Value for money and high quality services remain at the heart of our approach, with a simple booking process and an exceptional customer service by booking directly through StarCreteTransfers.gr.

Our Menu
Coffee
Start your day with our expertly brewed coffee. We offer:

Espresso

Cappuccino

Latte

Americano

Specialty blends and seasonal flavors

Sandwiches
Enjoy freshly made sandwiches using high-quality ingredients. Options include:

Classic turkey and cheese

Veggie-packed delights

Tuna melt

Chicken pesto

Customizable sandwich options

Bagels
Our bagels are baked fresh daily and served with a variety of spreads:

Cream cheese (plain or flavored)

Butter

Peanut butter and jelly

Smoked salmon with dill

Juices
Stay refreshed with our selection of natural juices:

Orange juice

Apple juice

Mixed berry blends

Green detox juice

Toast
Simple yet satisfying, our toast options include:

Avocado toast with toppings

Buttered toast with jam or honey

Cinnamon sugar toast for a sweet treat

Why Choose Us?
Fresh Ingredients: We prioritize freshness in every dish and drink.

Cozy Atmosphere: Relax in our warm and inviting space.

Affordable Prices: Enjoy quality food and drinks at reasonable prices.

Customizable Options: Tailor your order to your taste.

Conclusion
Whether you’re stopping by for breakfast, lunch, or an afternoon snack, our café is here to serve you with great food, drinks, and hospitality. We look forward to welcoming you!

Once you have decided on the most suitable car for you and your family, fill in your preferred date and equipment, as well as your necessary personal details and send us the information form. You will soon receive an email from our business confirming your reservation. Payment will be made upon arrival after your contract is drawn up, so no credit cards are required. SECURE and CONVENIENT!

Free GPS equipment
Full insurance
Child seat (upon request)
Unlimited kilometers
Immediate replacement of the car in case of accident or breakdown
24-hour free delivery service, wherever you need (airport, hotel, center)

Our colleague will wait for you at the delivery point we have designated. To make it easier, we will hold a sign with your name printed on it, so it will not be a problem to find you.

The reservation can be made online through our website, filling in all your personal details, preferred dates and car type. The price you will see is the final price.

If you are interested, you can send us the form and you will soon receive a confirmation email if there is availability for the specific dates.

The reservation can also be made by calling us from 09:00 to 21:00, 7 days a week.

1. Location and Setting

• The Church of Saint Matthew is situated in the village of Agios Matthaios, which is located in the central part of Crete, near the Heraklion region. This village offers visitors a more peaceful, rural environment, giving insight into the local Cretan lifestyle.
• The church is nestled amidst beautiful Cretan landscapes, surrounded by rolling hills, olive groves, and traditional Cretan houses, which are characteristic of the more rural areas of the island.

2. Historical Background

• The church’s origins are difficult to pinpoint with certainty, as many small village churches on Crete have evolved over the centuries. However, the dedication to Saint Matthew suggests that the church was built by local Christians in honor of the apostle, who was believed to have spread Christianity in various parts of the ancient world.
• The church likely dates back several centuries, and like many churches on Crete, it may have undergone renovations and additions over the years, especially after the island’s Venetian and Ottoman occupations.

3. Architectural Style

• The Church of Saint Matthew follows the traditional Cretan church architecture style, with stone construction, a cross-shaped plan, and a prominent bell tower.
• Many churches in Crete have a simple yet elegant design, and this one is no exception. The interior may feature Byzantine-style icons, an iconostasis, and wooden pews. The church would likely be whitewashed, with stone walls typical of Greek island churches.
• Like many other churches on the island, the Church of Saint Matthew is built in a style that blends Byzantine traditions with later influences from the Venetian and Ottoman periods. Arched windows, small chapels, and simple decor may characterize the structure.

4. Significance and Role in Local Life

• The Church of Saint Matthew serves as a place of worship for the local community. Like many small village churches, it plays a central role in the religious and cultural life of its parishioners.
• The church hosts regular religious services, including Divine Liturgies, and is especially important during Christian holidays, such as Easter, Christmas, and the feast day of Saint Matthew (September 21st), when many locals come together to celebrate.
• The church also holds significance for local customs and traditions, playing a role in baptisms, weddings, and funeral services.

5. The Iconography of Saint Matthew

• Inside the church, visitors may find icons depicting Saint Matthew, who is often shown with his traditional symbols: a man (angel) or winged man symbolizing the human genealogy of Jesus. The iconography would reflect Byzantine artistic traditions, with intricate depictions of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and various saints.
• The iconostasis (the ornate screen that separates the altar from the nave) would likely feature a series of religious icons depicting scenes from the life of Christ, the Virgin Mary, and other saints.

6. Cultural Heritage

• The Church of Saint Matthew also serves as a reminder of the Christian heritage of Crete, where Christianity has been deeply intertwined with the island’s history since the early centuries AD.
• Like many religious sites on Crete, the church represents the island’s enduring faith and connection to Byzantine and Orthodox traditions.
• In addition to its role as a place of worship, the church is a valuable part of the island’s cultural and historical fabric. It stands as a reminder of the continuity of faith and local traditions, even as Crete has seen many changes throughout its history.

7. Visitor Experience

• The Church of Saint Matthew offers a peaceful, serene atmosphere for visitors, especially those seeking to explore Crete beyond the more well-known tourist sites.
• For those interested in religious and historical sites, the church provides a glimpse into the local religious practices and the architectural and cultural heritage of rural Crete.
• As a smaller, more intimate site, it does not attract large crowds, allowing visitors to enjoy a quieter experience compared to more famous churches or monasteries on the island.
• Visitors may also have the opportunity to interact with local villagers, many of whom continue to follow the traditions of the church and may provide insight into the significance of Saint Matthew in the community.

8. Nearby Attractions

• Heraklion: The region of Heraklion, where the church is located, is home to several famous attractions, including the Heraklion Archaeological Museum, the Palace of Knossos, and the Venetian Fortress. Visitors to Saint Matthew’s Church can easily combine a visit with a trip to these significant historical sites.
• Other Cretan Churches: There are many other historic churches and monasteries in the region, some of which date back to the Byzantine and Venetian periods, such as the Church of Panagia Kera and the Monastery of Saint George.
• Traditional Cretan Villages: The surrounding region offers the chance to explore traditional Cretan villages, each with its own unique character and local customs. The area around Agios Matthaios is known for its olive groves, vineyards, and natural beauty, making it a great area for hiking or scenic drives.

9. Conclusion

The Church of Saint Matthew in the village of Agios Matthaios is a lovely example of Cretan religious architecture and provides visitors with a peaceful glimpse into local life and the island’s spiritual traditions. Its simple beauty and historical significance make it an excellent spot for anyone interested in Crete’s religious heritage. Whether visiting for worship, quiet reflection, or to explore the surrounding landscape, the church offers a deep connection to the island’s Christian past and cultural richness.