Island Crete- the most beautiful and largest, densely populated and well-maintained tourist center in Greece. The island of Crete intrigues, fascinates with its unique and exotic nature. Gentle sun, warm sea and famous azure beaches, water parks and pools, rich history, traditions and culture, unique Minoan palaces and cities, charming villages, beautiful hotels and aquariums. The island of Crete is famous for its historical ones, which are of interest not only to adults, but also to little inquisitive tourists. Restaurants and wine taverns, colorful cafes, souvenir shops will allow you to have fun. It is on the island of Crete that youth and couples with children, newlyweds and students, elderly couples will be able to enjoy a comfortable stay.

Holy places in Crete

Crete is the most well-known and large center cultural and religious life of Greece. In the first century, the apostle Paul began to preach Christianity. Crete has perfectly preserved historical monuments and Christian shrines different eras, copies of manuscripts and ancient valuable icons.

The magnificent monastery of Arkadi is located 25 kilometers away. The exact date of the foundation of the monastery has not been established. There is an inscription on the ancient bell tower, which indicates that the monastery was founded in the sixteenth century, and other documents say that it was built by the monk Arkady in the second Byzantine period. Arkadi has been expanded and completed over the years, so the monastery has different architectural styles.

Arkadi Monastery is located 500 meters above the azure sea, allowing travelers to enjoy amazing views of the surroundings. Cobbled streets and courtyards that are buried in flowers and olive trees, cypresses and pines. A stunningly beautiful and majestic temple, decorated with two ships. A walk around the monastery will bring a lot of pleasant emotions.

Arkady- the only Orthodox monastery that existed during the war years, instilling a small particle of hope in Christians with its bell ringing. main temple Akrkadi is dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Lord, it is in it that an amazing icon of the Savior with the blood of monks frozen on it, who vehemently defended the monastery from the Ottomans, was preserved. The monastery museum has preserved unique works of art, ancient weapons and valuable icons, amazing medieval gold embroidery. The monks copied the works of the great ancient Greek thinkers, miraculously preserving the manuscripts to this day.

The monastery is open daily from 9.00 to 19.00, the cost of visiting is 3 euros.

The monastery is located 37 kilometers from the Rethymno region. Preveli Monastery is divided into two parts: Upper and Lower. The lower part of the monastery - Kato Preveli, is dedicated to St. John the Baptist. Founded by Kato

Preveli in 1550, however, during the Turkish-Venetian wars, the monastery was destroyed. The temple was restored in 1836, and then consecrated in honor of St. John the Theologian. The monastery contains valuable sacred vessels and unique icons. The monastery is currently closed and is an important architectural monument.

The upper part of the monastery - Piso Preveli, is dedicated to John the Theologian. The date 1594 is engraved on the bell tower, which indicates the foundation of the temple. During the difficult times of the occupations, the monastery became a refuge for freedom-loving fighters. On a cliff, against the background of a blue sky, there is a monastery with snow-white walls, beyond which stunning landscapes open up to the azure sea and brown peaks. Arches and stairs, amazing temples, cobbled courtyards of the monastery are neat, lined with magnificent clay flowerpots. The monastery has preserved the most important Christian shrine - a particle of the Holy Sepulcher, and also has a chic collection of works of art. On the territory of the monastery there is a wonderful menagerie.

Monastery of Preveli is open for visitors daily from 9.00 to 19.00, and on Sunday and holidays from 8.00 to 18.30. Entrance ticket - 2.50 euros, Orthodox visitors - admission is free.

Gouvernetou Monastery is located in the picturesque region of Chania, not far from the most beautiful monastery of Crete - Agia Triada. The main temple of Gouvernet is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and has another name - the Lady of the Angels.

Gouverneto was founded in the 16th century, the buildings of the monastery resemble a powerful fortress. During the years of the Venetian rule, Gouverneto was the most populous and huge monastery on the island of Crete. However, due to hostilities on the island, the monastery buildings were partially damaged. The fortress wall and two defensive towers, residential and utility rooms, a stunning temple of Our Lady with ancient and unique frescoes on the facade have been perfectly preserved. Walking through the deserted courtyards and streets on the territory of a beautiful monastery, you mysteriously plunge into the atmosphere of ancient times. A museum has been opened at the monastery, which contains valuable works of church art and ancient relics.

Next to the monastery is a small chapel dedicated to the founder of Gouvernet, Saint John the Hermit. Near the temple there is another chapel dedicated to the Ten Saints.

The Monastery of Gouverneto has certain visiting hours: Monday - Tuesday - Thursday

9.00 to 12.00, from 17.00 to 19.00. Saturday and Sunday from 9.00 to 11.00, from 17.00 to 20.00.

Faneromeni Monastery is located in, not far from the picturesque town. In a secluded place in the midst of a fantastic mountain silence, there is an unusual monastery of Faneromeni, which has become an important place for pilgrims. It is believed that the monastery was erected on the site where the marble sanctuary of the Goddess Artemis was previously located. Not many tourists know about this amazing and unique place, also, it is not in tourist guides, but this monastery is worth a visit. Local residents and pilgrims come to the monastery to ask for blessings, health and the birth of children.

Faneromeni is carved on a rocky slope, and in a deep cave is the main temple of the monastery, where a valuable relic is kept - the icon of the Mother of God. Numerous thank-you plaques hang near the icon. Faneromeni architecture is quite unusual. Near the rock there are monastic buildings, reminiscent of colorful Cretan villages. Paved courtyards, neat white houses with balconies and terraces, flowers and trees give this place a fantastic atmosphere of tranquility. The monastery complex has four groups of buildings, which are united around a narrow courtyard. Attached to the monastery is a wing with cells, a chapel and a library dedicated to Saint Silouanos of Athos. There is a museum attached to the monastery, which stores objects of traditional crafts and church art, robes and various vessels, a magnificent exhibition of Christian books. Every year the monastery celebrates on the fifteenth of August the Assumption of the Virgin, dedicated to the Virgin Mary.

The gates of the Faneromeni monastery are always open to visitors, who are warmly welcomed by the monks. Pilgrims will be able to stay overnight or live for a while.

The monastery of Agia Triada is located on Crete in the area, on the stunning peninsula of Akrotiri. The Monastery of the Holy Trinity is located near the airport of Chania, at the foot of the stunning Mount Stavros.

Agia Triada Monastery is one of the richest and most beautiful monasteries on the island of Crete. A fantastic alley of cypress trees leads to the main entrance, and centuries-old olive groves and citrus forests surround the monastery.

The monastery buildings are painted in a delicate peach color, there are many ladders and terraces from which stunning landscapes open up. Neat paved courtyards and passages immersed in greenery, benches for visitors, chapels and charming little churches. In the vicinity there are olive and grape groves, which, under the brand name Agia Triada, produce wonderful wine and olive oil, organic vinegar and honey, and excellent soap. In the church shop there is an opportunity to purchase natural and healthy foods great souvenirs.

The library of the Monastery of the Holy Trinity has preserved unique collections of Byzantine icons and ancient manuscripts. Also in the museum are collections of paintings, icons of St. John the Theologian and St. Nicholas, and the most important exhibit is the twelfth-century altar covering, icons of the artist Skordilis. The monastery of Agia Triada is stauropegial, which means complete submission to the Patriarchate of Constantinople.

Monastery of the Holy Trinity opened from 8.00 to sunset, in winter from 8.00 to 14.00, from 16.00 to sunset.

The monastery of Katholiko is located in the region of Chania, in highlands Akrotiri peninsula at the bottom of a mysterious and deep gorge.

Katholiko is a rather ancient Orthodox monastery, which was founded approximately in the fifth century. The monastery of Katholiko is partially destroyed and uninhabited, therefore it has become the only monastery on the island of Crete that has not been trampled down by many tourists. Cretans look after the monastery. The main temple of Katholiko is carved right into the rock, and only one wall is man-made with unusual architecture. In the mountains surrounding the monastery, cells of monks are carved, which can be reached by crawling.

Not far from Katholiko there is a cave - Bear, in which St. John lived and died. There is a legend that says that there was a holy spring in the cave, where the locals took water. But one day a bear began to come to the source, which attacked people. People turned with prayers to the Virgin Mary, who turned the bear into stone. The cave has a central stalactite, which is very reminiscent of a frozen bear statue.

Catholico monastery opened daily from 9.00 am to sunset.

The Monastery of Our Lady of Chrysoskalitissa is located in the region of Chania, not far from the charming resort village of Paleochora.

Translated from Greek, the monastery of Chrysoskalitissa means the monastery of Our Lady with a golden step. The monastery was founded in the 15th - 16th century, and is fanned by many ancient legends. One of them says that the monks, fleeing the Turks, walled up all the gold in one of the hundred steps, and only a deeply religious person with a pure heart and soul can see it.

Chrysoskalitissa Nunnery rises majestically on a hill, from where an incredible beautiful landscape on the endless azure and calm sea. The snow-white monastery is surrounded by bright greenery. Well-groomed snow-white stairs, stone walls, lots of flowers and greenery. Only two monks live in the monastery, who keep order and cleanliness in their holy monastery. The temple has two naves dedicated to the Holy Trinity and the Virgin Mary. The most important ancient relic of the monastery of Chrysoskalitissa was the icon of the Assumption of the Virgin, which was painted by the artist more than a thousand years ago. The icon of the Assumption of the Virgin is available for visitors and pilgrims who can touch it.

AT summer time year, the monastery is open from 08.00 to sunset. In the winter months - from 08.00 to 14.00, from 16.00 to sunset. Don't forget to wear appropriate clothing.

The Monastery of Our Lady of Akrotiri (Topli) is located in the area of ​​Lassithi, not far from the resort town of Agios Nikolaos.

Toplou Monastery is one of the famous and influential, incredibly beautiful monasteries of the island of Crete. The Monastery of Our Lady of Akrotiri was founded in the fourteenth century to protect against pirate raids, and all of its structures have been perfectly preserved until today. Toplou is surrounded by windmills and majestic rocks, and from afar you can see a 33-meter bell tower and an impregnable ten-meter wall. The monastery has a rather picturesque courtyard and shady arches, colorful cobbled streets. Today, the monastery has many pilgrims and four permanent residents. The monks produce olive oil and fragrant wine, rakia, which can be purchased and tasted on the spot. If you drive a couple of kilometers, you can walk through the stunning palm grove of Vai, which will leave an unforgettable experience.

At the monastery of Our Lady of Akrotiri there is a museum, which was founded by the abbot Filofei Spanoudakis. The museum presents old church books and gilded crosses, the Gospel and engravings, seals, valuable icons of the fifteenth century, icons painted by the monks of Athos in the 18th and 19th centuries, a whole collection of ancient artifacts. The main icon of the monastery is “Wonderful are your deeds, Lord”, which was painted by the famous icon painter I. Kornaru in 1770.

Toplou Monastery is open to visitors daily from 9.00 to 13.00, from 14.00 to 18.00. The cost of visiting the monastery is free!

The monastery of Kera Kardiotissa is located in the area, not far from the famous resort village. According to various sources, the Panagia Kera Kardiotissa convent was founded in the 13th century. The monastery got its name thanks to the miraculous icon of the Mother of God of the Heart, which is kept in the church monastery of Rome. The Turks repeatedly tried to steal the icon of the Mother of God, but the icon returned to its place. However, the miraculous icon was stolen by an Italian merchant and transported to Rome, perhaps she found her place. For the monastery of Panagia Kera Kardiotissa, an exact copy of the icon of the Mother of God of the Heart was painted in 1735, and it is also miraculous. The miraculous icon helps women who are unable to have children, parishioners pray for the health of their loved ones. The monastery today is home to several nuns who look after the monastery.

The monastery of Panagia Kera Kardiotissa celebrates the birthday of the Virgin Mary on the 8th of September.

Currently, the monastery of Kera Kardiotissa is a rather quiet and peaceful place that can hide from worldly temptations. On the territory of the monastery there are many fruit trees, flowers in ancient clay pots, cozy courtyards with benches for relaxing. The monastery houses a magnificent museum where you can see old books and various items of church utensils. Also, there is a church shop and an amazing gallery.

Palagia Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is open for visitors from 8.00 to 18.00, entrance fee - 2 euros.

The Monastery of the Savior Christ and Saint Gideon is located in the charming village of Margarites, in the region of Heraklion.

The village of Margarites is located on a hillside, and the monastery itself is at the bottom of the hill. Approximately the monastery of Christ the Savior and Saint Gideon was founded in the 15th century by a member of the noble Venetian family Dandalo, who is buried in main church the monastery itself. During the Venetian era, the monastery was Catholic. The last monk was Father Kallinikos, after whose death the monastery was empty, and only in 1998 the Cretans began to restore it on their own.

Today, the amazing monastery of Christ the Savior and Saint Gideon is a very peaceful and peaceful place. On the territory of the monastery there is a church dedicated to the Savior Christ. In addition to new buildings, it is planned to build a new church in the monastery, dedicated to the holy martyr Gideon of Karakal, who died in the fight against the Turks. Also, there is an interesting living area in which different species of birds live.
The doors of the monastery of Christ the Savior and St. Gideon are open from 8.00 am until sunset.

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Almost the entire area Byzantine Empire was conquered by the Ottoman Turks, who were not careful with the heritage of Byzantine culture (they simply got rid of it). There aren't many places left to see this. interesting collection frescoes of this period.

Unfortunately, the frescoes are no longer in best condition, although given their age, and these are works of art of the 14th century, they are quite well preserved. As we were told, restoration is not yet planned.

The original icon of the Mother of God Kardiotissa

The original icon has its own destiny, which has nothing to do with the monastery. It is quite possible, and for the best, that the icon was taken to Italy. It is difficult to say whether she could survive the Turkish rule in Crete. Many Orthodox relics in Greece during this period were destroyed.

The icon ended up in the Church of St. Matthew in Rome, where it was from 1498 to 1799. From here she was transferred to the monastery of St. Eusebius, where she stayed for another 128 years until 1927. And already in 1927 it was transferred to the church of San Alfonso, also in Rome, in the area of ​​the Esquiline Hill.

If you find yourself in Rome, you can visit this church, the icon is still there.

The photo on the right shows the courtyard of the monastery and a fragment of the column, with which the icon arrived from Constantinople. Believe this legend or not, decide for yourself.

How to get to Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

The easiest way to do this is during an organized tour. There are no special excursions to Kera Kardiotissa. Usually, a visit to the monastery is included in other excursion programs “in the load”. If you definitely want to come here, you will have to choose one of them.

If you are traveling by car, the first thing to consider is the opening hours of the monastery. It is closed from 13:00 to 15:30. You need to drive from Heraklion along the E75 highway to the city of Agios Nikolaos, in the area of ​​\u200b\u200bthe city, turn onto the road to the village of Kritsa, then look for signs to the monastery.

Don't forget about clothes as you go to Orthodox church. Men must take off their hats when entering the church premises. Women should stock up on a headscarf. Clothing should be modest.

Have a good trip, and read our other articles about Greece ( links below).

The history of the creation of the monastery is shrouded in mystery, because the date of its foundation is not exactly known, but there are two versions. According to one version, the monastery was built during the time of the emperor of the Eastern Roman Empire, Flavius ​​Arcadius. Other sources claim that the construction of the monastery began under the Byzantine emperor Heraclius I. But a legend has survived to this day that says that the wandering monk Arcadius, wandering around the neighborhood, saw something sparkling on the top of the hill. He came closer and found the icon, the salary of which sparkled in the branches of the olive tree. The monk took this as a sign and decided to build a monastery on this site. This is even evidenced by the oldest inscription in the monastery, dating from the 14th century.

For more than two hundred years, Crete has been part of Ottoman Empire, and in 1866 the Christians of Crete rebelled against the Turkish yoke. Residents of local villages were forced to flee behind the walls of the Arkadi monastery.

Now the monks continue to live here. They support the monastery and the church with ancient icons. The monastery also has a museum with unique relics.

Monastery of St. Kalivyani

Monastery of St. Kalivyani, also called the Monastery of the Assumption of the Mother of God Kalyvyani. The monastery is famous for its rich history. The relics of the holy martyrs are kept in the monastery, which from time to time are put up for worship.

The Kalivyani Monastery was officially recognized only in 1968. To our days, the influence of the monastery has increased significantly. The structure of the modern monastery at one time was built for the Turkish citizen Hussein Vrazerzade, there was also a long-demolished ancient church. Under the ruins of this small old temple in 1873, they found the icon of the Annunciation.

On the vast territory of the monastery there is a nursing home and an orphanage. It also houses various foundations and philanthropic institutions.

Monastery of John the Baptist

The Monastery of St. John the Baptist is located on a mountainside overlooking the village of Bali. During antiquity, the settlement of Atali was located in this area, which was repeatedly mentioned in the Venetian chronicles. The monastery, built in 1635, is attractive not only for its beautiful architecture, but also for its magnificent scenery and landscape.

At the heart of the main monastery temple is a small Byzantine church, which was rebuilt in the 17th century, and around which a monastery was formed. The atmosphere that prevails in this monastery invites you to linger for a while - there is a calm and pacifying energy here.

Behind the church there is a spacious terrace with a magnificent view of the village of Bali and the sea. Behind the monastery walls there is a water-bearing spring spouting from the ground. The monastery complex also includes a small church of the Virgin, located a few kilometers from Bali and famous for its miraculous icon of the Virgin Harakyani. The icon for believers is opened only on the days of the celebration of the main holiday of the monastery - the Assumption of the Virgin.

Toplou Monastery

Toplou Monastery or Our Lady of Akrotiri is one of the most significant and beautiful monasteries on the island of Crete. The monastery is already impressive from a distance, like a small fortress, surrounded by a 10-meter wall and with an impressive bell tower of 33 meters, it seems impregnable, warlike and lonely. It is located in an almost deserted area and is adjacent only to the giant turbines of a wind farm. All this is because the rest of the temples located in these places were destroyed as a result of pirate raids, and Toplu itself was seriously damaged. After lengthy restorations, it finally became available for visiting.

Now the interior decoration is made up of skillful icons painted by monks, engravings, gilded and silver-plated crosses, the Gospel and many other things necessary during services and prayers.

In addition to the services, the monks are also engaged in more mundane affairs. The monastery has a small area with vineyards and olive trees, where the clergy work hard to harvest a good harvest, and then process it, making olive oil and very tasty wine, which is sold, and the proceeds go to the improvement of the monastery.

Faneromeni Monastery

Faneromeni Monastery is located to the west of the town of Agios Nikolaos, and offers magical views of the areas of St. John, Gira and Kastro. The unique monastery still operates today and is one of the most important monuments of the region.

It is said that the place where the monastery is located used to be the Marble Sanctuary of the Goddess Artemis. The disciples of the Apostle Paul preached Christianity and created the first "prayer house", and one of them, Sosion, was ordained the first bishop of Lefkada and founded this monastery.

The monastery acquired its present appearance in the era of the Venetian rule, in 1734, and in the 19th century it was restored after two fires, and is distinguished by a pronounced influence of Zakynthos architecture.

The monastery was recently reconstructed on the initiative of the abbot. A library and a chapel dedicated to St. Silouanos of Athos were added to it, and a new wing with cells was added. In the monastery, in a new modern building, there was an ecclesiastical museum, where one could see and consider objects of ecclesiastical art and traditional crafts.

Vessels, robes, as well as icons were located on three floors, revealing to visitors a detailed picture of the development of the culture of Lefkada.

The monastery has always had an exhibition of Christian books, and a small hostel is provided for pilgrims. The Monastery of Our Lady of the Newly Appeared attracts many pilgrims, she is also a patron and protector, and thanks are offered in her honor on Monday, the feast of the Holy Spirit.

Monastery of St. Anthony Vrondisi

The monastery of St. Anthony has existed since the Second Byzantine period. Many artists of the Cretan Renaissance lived and worked in it. Including one of the most famous icon painters - Michael of Damascus, whose icons today were taken out of the monastery and are stored in the Church - Museum of St. Catherine in Heraklion. The sunset of the glory of the monastery is associated with the arrival of the Turks in this area besieging Heraklion in the middle of the 17th century.

In the church of the monastery, among other interesting and significant icons, there is an icon of St. Simeon, the patron saint of babies.

Only 1 monk lives in the monastery. The monastery is located at the foot of the Ida mountains, not far from the village of Zaros.

Monastery of Saint George Selinaris

The monastery of St. George Selinaris is a modern building, which is not even hundreds of years old. There is a legend and its origin. Allegedly, one local resident had a dream in which the Saint ordered the construction of a temple. The man woke up, got down to business and by morning had already done the job. To the questions of the neighbors how he built the building so quickly, he answered that the Saint himself helped him.

There is also a second version of the origin of the monastery, which is more official. The first monastery was built in 1538. The temple did not last long. The Turks destroyed it. Then three brothers came to these parts, one of whom - Nikolaos - saw the light from the cave. He went there and found the icon of St. George. The brother settled in a cave, leading a hermit's life. After his death, the relics of Nikolaos were transferred to the island of Rhodes. Opposite the rock in which he lived, they built the monastery of St. George.

Monastery of Saint Palyani

The monastery of Agios Palyani is the oldest in Crete, it is located 20 kilometers from Venerato. Previously, the monastery owned a lot of land, today it occupies a small modest territory.

The monastery was founded in 688, it originally belonged to the Byzantine Empire, so it was very richly decorated. In 1304, the Bishop of Constantinople took the monastery under his control, since the riches of the monastery did not leave him indifferent. After the capture of Crete in 1204-1211, Venice again began to lay claim to this monastery. Since 1669, after the capture of Crete by the Turks, the monastery was robbed and ravaged many times.

AT late XIX centuries, its inhabitants returned to the monastery of St. Palyani again, today about 50 nuns live here. Although the original rich decoration of the skete has not been restored, this monastery is very popular and famous for its unusual icon, hidden behind the luxurious crown of a myrtle tree.

Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa

The Convent of Kera Kardiotissa is the monastery of Our Lady of the Heart, famous for its miraculous icon. The building is located at an altitude of 622 meters, in a beautiful and picturesque place, surrounded by rocky mountains.

The monastery of the Mother of God of the Heart was built in the XIII century in the Byzantine period. Currently, the monastery is a quiet and peaceful place, able to hide from temptations. big city up to 25 people. On the territory of the building there is a museum with church books and utensils.

To get to the monastery, you should head for the Lassithi plateau and move towards the village of Kera.

Inside the complex there is a Byzantine church, and the main shrine in it is the icon of Kera Kardiotissa, painted in the 8th century by the icon painter and monk Saint Lazarus. His icon is known for its beauty and ability to heal the sick - it gives health to the weak and helps women who are unable to give birth to children.

Three times the Turks stole the icon and hid it in Constantinople, but each time the shrine was returned to its place. Even an attempt to chain the icon to a marble column was unsuccessful - the thing returned to its place along with the column and chain, leaving the thieves with nothing. The monastery currently has a copy written in 1735 from the original and which is also miraculous, and the original was taken out by a wine merchant and is in Italy.

Monastery of Katholiko

The monastery itself was founded approximately in the 5th-6th centuries, but only in the 13th century did it become a place of formal worship. The Catholico monastery is located in a ravine near the Gouverneto monastery, to get here you need to go down a rocky path through the gorge. But this path is worth it!

An elegant 50m long bridge leads to the monastery, which at one time served as a churchyard. The church itself is carved into the rock, and its walls were erected only on the western side. On the other side of the cliff is a viaduct with arches. It can be reached through the preserved gate with a bell tower. The monks' sketes have also been preserved, the entrances of two of them are so cramped that one can only get inside by crawling.

Not far from the monastery there is a cave where St. John lived and died. Inside, his stone couch has been preserved. To the left of the entrance to the cave is a pool, the water of which is considered sacred. It is often said that some people feel pure energy near the couch. To get here, you need to have flashlights (the cave is not lit, and its length is about 150 meters) and comfortable shoes. Here inside you can see the rich stone decoration and the very tomb of John the Hermit.

The monks left this monastery due to frequent pirate raids in the 16th century and moved to the newly built monastery of Gouverneto. Now no one lives in the monastery, it is supported by local residents and monks from the nearest monastery.

Monastery of the Holy Trinity

Agia Triada is an Orthodox monastery located in the city of Chania on the Greek island of Crete. It was erected in the 17th century by the two Zangaroli brothers on the site of a pre-existing church. The complex was built in the Byzantine architectural style with three cruciform domes. The main temple of the monastery is dedicated to the Holy Trinity and topped by large Doric columns located on both sides of the main entrance.

The facade of the church has double colonnades of the Ionic and Corinthian style, on which an inscription was embossed in 1631. Greek. In the 19th century the monastery acted as an important theological school, and in 1892 it was badly damaged during conflicts with the Turks. Ten years later, it was restored and a theological seminary was created here.

The monastery houses a library containing some rare copies of books and a museum displaying ancient icons and a collection of sacred manuscripts. Among the outstanding examples are the icon of St. John the Theologian, dating from 1500, as well as icons depicting the Last Judgment, the Hospitality of Abraham and the Descent into Hell. Hundreds of tourists and pilgrims visit this place every year.

Monastery of Saint Irene

Monastery of Saint Irene is a small nunnery located on the island of Crete, south of the city Heraklion. The monastery is recognized as an important historical monument and is protected by the state.

The exact date of the founding of the monastery of St. Irene is unknown, but historians believe that it was founded during the Venetian domination, in the sixteenth century. Previously, the monastery was considered one of the richest in all of Crete, but in 1822 it was destroyed by the Turks during the occupation of the island. Only in 1944 the monastery was restored to its former splendor.

The monastery of St. Irene is located in a very picturesque place - on the slope of a mountain range, at an altitude of 630 meters. The monastery offers a magnificent panorama of the island, which invariably delights all visitors. And the monastery itself is very beautiful - ancient buildings and basilicas buried in greenery delight with their elegant southern architecture. You can buy religious souvenirs from local nuns handmade and embroidery.

Sun, sea, picturesque landscapes, fresh air, pristine nature, organic products. The largest island of Greece is washed by three seas - Cretan, Libyan, Ionian - choose any. Crete is one of the most popular European resorts. But that's not all. The main pearl of the island is Christian shrines.

In the 1st century, the Apostle Paul preached here with his disciple Titus. When the apostle left these lands, he left a disciple in his place, ordaining him a bishop. The honest head of Titus is a precious shrine of these places. It is kept in the capital of Crete - Heraklion, in the Cathedral of St. Titus. During the Turkish invasion, the chapter was transported to Venice and only in 1966, several centuries later, returned to its homeland.

25 kilometers from Heraklion is the oldest monastery - Panagia Paliani, known from the chronicles since 632. The foundation of the monastery is connected with the miracle of the appearance of the icon Holy Mother of God. Once there was a strong fire in the forest, the locals heard in the thicket female voice calling for help.

After the fire, an icon of the Mother of God with the image of a tree was found in the burnt branches, which soon began to sprout and grew for several centuries, gradually hiding the image in the branches. While the image was visible, a list was made from it, now it is kept in the main temple of the monastery and is revered as miraculous. And the myrtle tree still grows in the monastery, carefully guarded by the sisters. Its twigs, bark and leaves are healing power for which there is plenty of evidence. The icon, hidden by the branches, is sometimes shown, but not to everyone. Children see her.

The monastery of Arcadia in the minds of the Greek people personifies strength, courage and sacrifice. During the struggle against the Ottoman yoke, the defenders of the monastery - monks and laity - fought without any hope of victory, the forces were too unequal. All of them died, and the monastery was blown up. But the heroism of the dead inspired the whole people to a selfless struggle, which swept away the oppressors with the crushing power of faith. In the main temple of the monastery, dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Lord, there is an icon of the Savior, on which the gore of the martyrs, the defenders of the holy place, has been preserved.

The 14th-century convent of St. Marina is one of the most beloved places of pilgrimage. The icon of this saint is glorified by many healings - from infertility, cancer, nervous diseases. On the day of remembrance of St. Marina, on July 17, many pilgrims come to the monastery - both Cretans and guests of the island.

The spring, originating from under the altar part of the main cathedral of the monastery, also has healing properties.

The treasury of the Cretan shrines is inexhaustible, from which you can endlessly draw spiritual wealth, consolation and healing. Come to Crete, see for yourself!

Crete pilgrimage program

8 days / 7 nights

1st day.

Arrival at the airport Greek island Crete. Transfer to the hotel. Hotel accommodation.

2nd day.

Heraklion. Cathedral of St. Titus the Apostle in Heraklion. Divine Liturgy. The Holy Apostle Titus is the most revered saint in Crete and the patron saint of the island. He was a disciple of the Apostle Paul and was the first to preach Christianity on the island. In the chapel at the temple there is a shrine with the honest head of the holy Apostle Titus. City tour.

Cathedral of Saint Mina. One of the largest and most impressive temples in Greece. Saint Mina was from Egypt, served as an officer in the Roman army and was brutally executed for preaching Christianity. Many times the image of St. Min on a horse appeared and saved people, especially during the period of occupation, when the Turks killed Christians in Crete.

Church of the holy martyr. Catherine.

3rd day.

Monastery of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin - Panagia Paliani. The oldest nunnery of the island of Crete, located 25 km from Heraklion. The miraculous icon of the Blessed Virgin Mary with a sprouted tree. There are many cases of healing of women who fervently prayed before this icon for the gift of children. The stone from the Holy Sepulcher of the Virgin and the Cross with a piece of the Holy Tree are kept in the temple.

Monastery of Kaliviani. The spiritual center of the monastery is the temple of the Life-Giving Spring, preserved from the 14th century, with the miraculous icon of the same name of the Most Holy Theotokos residing in it. The relics of the monk-martyrs who suffered for their faith from the Turks were miraculously found in the monastery. In the temple there is an ark with particles of the relics of St. vmch. George, St. vmch. Panteleimon, St. Nicholas the Wonderworker, St. vmch. Catherine.

Monastery of the Holy Martyr. George. Located 30 km south of Heraklion. This is the largest male monastery on the island of Crete. Founded in 1614 by order of St. vmch. George, who appeared to the monk Paisios. The revered shrine of the monastery is part of the relics of St. vmch. George the Victorious. Through prayers to St. George, during a drought, a spring gushed out of the ground, which has survived to this day. Visit to the Museum of History.

4th day.

Agarafu Monastery. That was the name of the tree under which she was revealed miraculous icon Holy Mother of God. The 7E tree has survived to this day, although the monastery was founded in the 15th century. Located 23 km east of Heraklion in a wooded area. Degustation of monastery wine.

Monastery of the Holy Martyr Marina in Voni. XIV century. The miraculous icon of St. Marina is kept here and there is a source of healing water.

Visit to the pottery workshops in Frapsano.

Cathedral of St. Andrew of Crete in Arkalohori. Prayer.

Monastery of Kera Kardiotissa. It is located 50 km southeast of Heraklion in a mountainous area next to the road leading to Lassithi. The creation of the monastery is associated with the miraculous icon of the Mother of God (Kera means Mother of God). Twice they tried to take the icon to Constantinople, they chained it to a marble column, but it miraculously returned back to the monastery.

Abode of the holy martyr. Panteleimon in Fodele. Located near Heraklion among orange and olive groves. The main shrine of the monastery is a part of the relics from the hand of St. vmch. Panteleimon.

5th day.

Church and cell of St. Myron. Located in one of the most beautiful places islands. Saint Myron helped poor people many times. One night, having met thieves in his house, he helped them carry away the loot. Miron believed that a person who decided to steal was in great need. There is a legend about how Saint Myron appeared in a dream to an officer Nazi Germany during the occupation of the island and saved his village from burning. This is evidenced by the paintings in the cell of the saint, which is hollowed out in a small cave, there is also a well with healing water. A ladle hangs on the wall, with which you can draw water from the well. According to the testimony local residents If a person is burdened with serious sins, the ladle will not fill with water.

Monastery of Saint Anthony. Located in the foothills near the village of Zaros. Founded in the second half of the 10th century. The miraculous icon of St. Anthony is especially revered. Water from the source, which is located at the gates of the monastery, is considered healing.

6th day.

Rethymno. City tour.

Monastery of the Holy Martyr Irina. Shrines - a miraculous icon and a particle of the relics of the holy martyr Irina.

Monastery of the Transfiguration of the Lord in Kube. Founded during the reign of the Venetians. During the Turkish occupation, it was destroyed to the ground. After the vision of the Athonite monk Nestor, whose birthplace was the island of Crete, and with the blessing of the Athos elders, the monastery began its revival. During the restoration, an image of St. John the Baptist, after whom one of the temples of the monastery was named.

Monastery of St. vmch. George Arsaniu. Founded in late XVI century. Honored shrines - the rib of St. vmch. George the Victorious and part of the relics of St. Charalampia.

Monastery of Arcadia. Founded in the 5th century, a symbol of Cretan freedom. During the liberation struggle against the Ottoman yoke, the defenders of the monastery - monks and laity - heroically fought against the Turks and died in battle, inspiring the Cretans to fight for freedom with their courage.

7th day.

Free day.

8th day.

Airport transfer. Flight to Moscow.

"That's why I left you in Crete, so that you could complete
unfinished, and appointed presbyters in all the cities,
as I commanded you..."
(Epistle to Titus, St. Paul, 1:5)

The soul of a Christian cannot live without God and seeks Him everywhere. Going on vacation, first you ask yourself what shrines you can meet there. The director of the pilgrimage company "Pokrov", Olga Bogatyreva, found us a place to rest on the island of Crete. This island is closely associated with the Apostle Paul, and especially with the Apostle Titus. The next day after arrival we went to the former capital of Crete - the city of Gortyn, the birthplace of the Apostle.

The Apostle Titus was one of those lucky ones who lived in times Jesus Christ saw him, talked to him. He was born into a noble family on the island of Crete. Received an excellent education. He also studied Jewish books. After reading the book of Isaiah, his mind was drawn to comprehend true God. At this time, rumors about God-Christ began to spread. Uncle, ruler Crete sent Titus to Jerusalem to investigate the veracity of these rumors. Titus arrived in Jerusalem, and, as St. Philaret, Archbishop of Chernigov, writes, "he had the unspeakable happiness of seeing Jesus Christ, of hearing the Divine teaching from His own lips...". I sincerely believed. Received baptism from St. Apostle Paul, became his collaborator, and was numbered among the 70 Apostles. He went through many countries with the Apostle Paul with a sermon, and when they arrived in the homeland of Titus - the island of Crete, they laid the foundation of the Church, and the Apostle Paul appointed the Apostle Titus as a bishop.

"The Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy wombs," the Apostle Paul reminds Titus in his epistle. And then teaches what to do. The Apostle Titus fulfilled his mandate and founded nine dioceses in Crete. He died at the age of 95. His body rested in the cathedral church of the former capital of the island, Gortyn. In the VI century, a majestic basilica was founded, which became the center of worship of the Apostle. His holy relics were kept here. After the devastation of the island by the Saracens in 823 from the relics of St. Apostle Titus left one head, stored in the new capital of the island - Heraklion, in the temple of his name. And about the Apostle Titus, St. Andrew of Crete, who was also born here.

Now there are about seven hundred temples, monasteries and chapels on the island of Crete. Of the hundred existing monasteries, twenty-five are active. There are many nuns in the women's quarters, up to 60 people, and in the men's quarters there are 3-4 monks. The Archdiocese of Crete (8 metropolias) is semi-autonomous within the Patriarchate of Constantinople. There are also Old Calendarists who did not accept the new style (Gregorians). They do not have canonical communion with any Orthodox Church.

It is impossible to visit everywhere in one trip. We were able to visit only seven monasteries. Each monastery has its own shrines, which are revered in Greece and are unfamiliar to Russian pilgrims. This is how we got to know them.

Monastery of the Assumption of the Mother of God in Kalivyan

The monastery is maintained in excellent condition through the efforts of 60 nuns. Orphanage and nursing home. The 16th century chapel with murals has been preserved. But I was struck by the grave of St. Harlampy. I carefully read his life, but did not find evidence of his stay in Crete. Maybe it's another saint. Written in Greek, maybe someone will translate.

Monastery of St. Myron

We visited the monastery of St. Myron, Bishop of Crete, went down to the cave where he prayed, and drew water from a spring that flows out of the rock there. Saint Myron, Bishop of Crete, miracle worker, in his youth had a family, was engaged in agriculture. He was famous for his kindness, he helped everyone who turned to him for help. Once, finding thieves on his threshing floor, Saint Myron himself helped them to lift sacks of grain onto their shoulders. With his generosity, the saint so shamed the thieves that subsequently they began to lead honest life. The Cretans, who deeply respected the saint, begged him to accept the rank of presbyter in hometown Ravkiya, and then elected him Bishop of Crete. Wisely managing his flock, Saint Myron received from the Lord the gift of miracles. During the flood of the Triton River, the saint stopped its course and crossed over it as if on dry land, and then sent a man with his rod to the river with a command for the water to resume flow. Saint Myron reposed in God at the age of 100, around the year 350.

Saint Myron

And I also want to write about the shrine of the Patriarchal and Stavropegic Monastery of St. John the Theologian in Preveli. This is the Miraculous Honest Cross, brought by Abbot Ephraim Prevelis from Constantinople in the 18th century. The crystal base contains a particle of the Holy Tree of the Lord. Historical documents describe many miracles from the shrine. I remember the case when the Germans occupied Crete in 1941, the monastery was plundered. They also took the Cross. They decided to send it to Athens by plane and sell it there, but the plane could not take off. Then the Cross was transferred to another plane, but it did not take off either. The Germans realized that the Cross had Higher power, got scared and returned to the monastery. Especially those who have problems with their eyes receive help from the Cross.

Miraculous Honest Cross

There is one more thing I would like to say. myths ancient greece meet here at every turn. Either they offer to visit the cave of Zeus, then to look at the plane tree, under which Zeus met with Europe. Or on Mount Zeus built the temple of the Transfiguration. When asked how it all gets along with them, the Orthodox guide said that these are fairy tales. No one believes in them anymore, but they are preserved as a folk epic. And he reproached me that you read your fairy tales to children, and this does not prevent you from going to church. Like this.

There are a lot of shrines and saints glorified in Crete. But the most important meeting, the meeting with the Apostle Titus, took place.

Galina Aleksandrova
October 2012

New Testament. Epistle to Titus of the Holy Apostle Paul

Chapter 1

1 Paul, a servant of God, and an apostle of Jesus Christ, according to the faith of God's elect and the knowledge of the truth pertaining to godliness, 2 in the hope of eternal life, which God, who does not change in word, promised before the ages of ages, 3 but in due time he revealed his word in preaching, entrusted to me by the command of our Savior, God, - 4 to Titus, the true son of the common faith: grace, mercy and peace from God the Father and the Lord Jesus Christ our Savior.

5 For this reason I left you in Crete, so that you would complete the unfinished business and appoint presbyters in all the cities, as I ordered you: 6 if anyone is blameless, the husband of one wife, has faithful children, who are not reproached for debauchery or disobedience.

7 For a bishop must be blameless, as God's steward, not bold, not irascible, not a drunkard, not a thug, not a covetous man, 8 but a hospitable person, a lover of good things, a chaste, just, godly, self-controlled, 9 keeping to the true word, according to doctrine, that he might be strong and instruct in sound doctrine and reprove those who resist.

10 For there are many disobedient, idle talkers and deceivers, especially among the circumcised, 11 who must stop their mouths: they corrupt whole houses, teaching what they should not, out of shameful self-interest.

12 And one of them said, "The Cretans are always liars, evil beasts, lazy wombs."

13 This testimony is true. For this reason, rebuke them severely, so that they may be sound in the faith, 14 heeding not the Jewish fables and the ordinances of people who turn away from the truth.

15 To the pure, all things are pure; but for the defiled and unbelievers there is nothing pure, but both their mind and conscience are defiled.

16 They say they know God, but by their deeds they deny it, being vile and rebellious, and incapable of any good work.

Chapter 2

1 But you say what is in accordance with sound doctrine: 2 so that the elders be vigilant, sedate, chaste, sound in faith, in love, in patience; 3 that the old women should also dress decently for saints, that they should not be slanderers, that they should not be enslaved to drunkenness, that they should teach good; 4 to instruct the young to love their husbands, to love their children, 5 to be chaste, clean, careful about the house, kind, submissive to their husbands, so that the word of God is not reproached.

6 You also exhort young men to be chaste.

7 In everything, show in yourself an example of good deeds, in teaching purity, degree, integrity, 8 a healthy, unreproachable word, so that the enemy is put to shame, not having anything bad to say about us.

9 Admonish servants to obey their masters, to please them in everything, not to contradict, 10 not to steal, but to show all good fidelity, so that in everything they will adorn the teachings of our Savior, God.

11 For the grace of God has appeared, saving for all men, 12 teaching us that, rejecting ungodliness and worldly lusts, we should live chastely, righteously and godly in this present age, 13 looking forward to the blessed hope and the manifestation of the glory of the great God and our Savior Jesus Christ, 14 Who gave Himself for us, in order to deliver us from all iniquity and to purify for Himself a special people, zealous for good deeds.

15 Speak these things, exhort and rebuke with all authority, so that no one will despise you.

Chapter 3

1 Remind them to obey and submit to rulers and authorities, to be ready for every good deed, 2 not to slander anyone, not to be quarrelsome, but quiet, and to show all meekness towards all people.

3 For we also were once foolish, disobedient, deceived, were slaves to lusts and various pleasures, lived in malice and envy, were vile, hated one another.

4 When the grace and love of God our Savior appeared, 5 He saved us, not according to the works of righteousness that we would have done, but according to His mercy, by the bath of rebirth and renewal Holy Spirit 6 whom he has poured out on us richly through Jesus Christ our Savior, 7 so that, being justified by his grace, we may become heirs according to the hope of eternal life.

8 The word is true; and I want you to confirm this, so that those who believe in God try to be diligent in good deeds: this is good and beneficial to people.

9 Go away from foolish competitions and genealogies, and disputes and strife about the law, for they are useless and vain.

10 A heretic, after the first and second admonition, turn away, 11 knowing that such a person has become corrupt and sins, being self-condemned.

12 When I send Artem or Tychicus to you, hasten to come to me in Nikopol, for I have decided to spend the winter there.

13 Take care to send Zina the lawyer and Apollos so that they do not lack anything.

14 Let our people also learn to exercise good deeds in the satisfaction of necessary needs, so that they would not be barren.

15 All who are with me greet you. Greet those who love us in faith. Grace be with you all. Amen.