Réthymnon, the third largest town on Crete (after Heraklion and Chania), lies halfway along the north coast, at the foot of the Psilorítis mountain range. The periods of Venetian and Turkish occupation have left their mark on the old town, which has many Venetian mansions and churches, several small Turkish-era mosques, and a 16th-century fortress. Today, the town is home to a university, and the local student population keeps the eateries and galleries of the old town busy throughout the year.