Crete – mythos and reality…

Crete is known as one of the largest centers of religious and cultural life in Greece. Apostle Paul with his disciple Titus, who later became the first bishop of the island, preached Christianity even in the I century.

The Cathedral of St. Titus is unique combining different architectural styles. This is due to the fact that during its long history it changed hands many times from Orthodox to Catholics and Muslims.

Panagia Paliani is the oldest nunnery in the island of Crete. Oral tradition affirms that it was founded much earlier the first mention in chronicles dated 632.

In the village Messara is hiding the Kaliviani nunnery of amazing beauty, twined with greenery and decorated with a variety of Greek roses.

The Holy Preveli monastery of St. John the Theologian was founded in 1594.

The Keras monastery. It was built in the early XIV century. Hundreds of pilgrims come here to see and touch, and perhaps to cure their ailments thanks to the miraculous power of the Mother of God Icon.

The Monastery of St. George Apanosifis was founded in 1614. The altar of the monastery cathedral keeps a part of his holy relics.

Near the small town of Sitia is one of most powerful and richest monasteries, the Toplou.

Built on the rock, the Kremasta monastery, dedicated to the Holy Archangels Michael and Gabriel, is a convent. Its nuns paint icons.

Monastery of St. Irene is revered as one of the oldest on Crete, the first written mention of it dates back to the year 1362.

Photo: Monastery of St. George. Selinari Gorge, National Road towards Agios Nikolaos.

June, 2016