The Agia Anna basilica in Eleutherna offers insights into the city's transformation into a Christian center. Learn about its location, history, and significance.
Agios Georgios Xifoforos, a mid-13th-century Byzantine church located near Apodoulou in Crete's Amari region, boasts well-preserved frescoes and a single-aisled, barrel-vaulted architecture. Dedicated to Saint George (Xifoforos), the church exemplifies Byzantine art and religious traditions. Its frescoes offer valuable insights into the cultural and artistic practices of the era. The church's history, potentially linked to a monastery, remains partially unclear. Today, it serves as a place of worship and pilgrimage, open to visitors interested in Byzantine architecture and religious art.
Byzantine-era, two-aisled church near the Minoan Palace of Galatas in Crete. Features an arkosolio and possible monastic remains. Frescoes in poor condition.
The Episcopal Basilica of Gortyn in Crete was a major religious center during the Early Byzantine period. It features mosaic floors and marble elements.
Moni Kapsa, an Eastern Orthodox monastery in southeastern Crete, Greece, is dedicated to Saint John the Baptist. Situated in the Lasithi region, near Pervolakia Gorge and overlooking the Libyan Sea, the monastery features a unique cave-like church with pebble mosaics. Its history spans from the Byzantine period, with evidence of hermits and monks residing there, through Venetian rule, pirate raids, and Ottoman influence. It was revived in the 19th century by Iosif Gerontogiannis, a local hermit later venerated as a saint. The complex includes monks' cells, a guesthouse, and a dining hall, built on four levels. The church's north wall contains paintings from 1552-1809, remnants of an older structure. The nearby Pervolakia Gorge offers hiking trails and unique flora. The monastery played a role in WWII, assisting Allied forces. It was restored in the early 2000s and remains an active monastery.
Explore the remnants of the Church of Panagia in the deserted village of Smilés, Crete. Discover its 14th-century frescoes and learn about its historical significance
Panagia Kera Kardiotissa, a 14th-century Byzantine monastery near Agios Thomas in Crete, is dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. Located in a lush landscape at an altitude of 630 meters, the monastery is situated in a place called Mouzouras, next to the Axedianos River. The monastery once housed a miraculous icon of Panagia Kardiotissa, depicting the Virgin Mary holding Christ. The icon's origins are debated, with some attributing it to an Armenian monk named Lazarus and others to the Heraklion painter Andreas Ritzos. The icon's miraculous powers were documented as early as 1415. The monastery became a significant pilgrimage site in 1912 following a vision of the icon of Saint George. It served as a nunnery from 1935 to 1962 and sheltered residents during the German occupation. Today, the renovated site features a centuries-old oak tree, peacocks, and a workshop for traditional weaving.
The Basilica of Agios Titos in Gortyna, a 5th-century structure rebuilt in the 6th and 7th centuries, reflects the city's transition from paganism to Christianity.
Byzantine church near Varsamonero Monastery, Crete, with 14th-century frescoes and intricate stonework. Active place of worship with annual feast day celebrations.
Moni Vrontisiou, a historic monastery in the Psiloritis Mountains of Crete, dates back to the 9th century. Dedicated to Saint Anthony and the Touching of Thomas, it is known for its architecture and frescoes. The monastery played a role in the Cretan struggle for independence, serving as a refuge for monks and a hub for revolutionary activities. Its fortified walls, two-story main building, and bell tower stand as a testament to its history. The 15th-century marble fountain at the entrance is a highlight, featuring intricate carvings. The main church houses surviving frescoes from the 14th century. Moni Vrontisiou is located 49 kilometers southwest of Heraklion and is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM with free admission.