Sacred Sites of Crete

This collection spans Heraklion's urban center and the surrounding rural landscapes, showcasing the evolution of Cretan religious architecture from Byzantine foundations to Venetian and Ottoman influences. Highlights include the Cathedral of Saint Titus, which houses the saint’s relic, and the 13th-century Basilica of Saint Mark. Beyond the city, the list features historic monasteries like Paliani, one of Crete’s oldest, and unique cavernous chapels built into the island's rugged terrain.

Saint Titus Church

The Cathedral of Saint Titus also known as Hagios Titos, is an Orthodox church in the city of Heraklion, Crete, dedicated to Saint Titus.

Monastety of St.Peter of the Dominican Order

This 13th-century monument is one of the oldest Dominican churches in the Mediterranean. It features a mix of Gothic and Byzantine architectural elements and served as a burial site for Venetian dignitaries during the Venetian rule of Crete.

Church of Saint George of the Armenians

An Armenian Apostolic church dating back to the late 17th century. Located near the center of Heraklion, it reflects the city's multicultural history and continues to serve the local Armenian community.

Catholic church of Saint John the Baptist

A small Catholic church that holds mass in Greek. It's a good place for religious people who are on holidays as the priest is very friendly…

Basilica of Saint Mark

Built by the Venetians in 1239, this former cathedral is now the Municipal Art Gallery. It features a distinctive portico and stands as a primary example of Venetian architecture in Heraklion, located opposite the Morosini Fountain.

Iera Mone tou Agiou Georgiou tou Gorgoleemonos

A male monastery located near the village of Kato Asites. Dating back to the Venetian period, it is known for its traditional architecture and a historic fountain situated within the lush courtyard.

Lord Christ Church

A small Orthodox chapel located in the rural outskirts of Heraklion, typical of the region's traditional ecclesiastical architecture.

Agios Eumenios

An Orthodox church dedicated to Saint Eumenios, serving the local community with traditional Cretan religious services.

Panagia Kardiotissa

A Byzantine-era church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, known for its historic role in local religious traditions and festivals.

Mone Palianes

One of the oldest active nunneries in Crete, dating to the early Byzantine period. It is famous for the 'Holy Myrtle,' an ancient tree believed to be miraculous, located within the monastery complex.

Agios Myron

This church is built over the cave where Saint Myron lived as a hermit. It is a significant pilgrimage site featuring a holy water spring located beneath the sanctuary.

Cavernous Church of St. Antonios

A traditional Cretan cave church built directly into the rock face, reflecting the island's long history of asceticism and hidden places of worship.

Nikolaos

Orthodox place of worship dedicated to Saint Nicholas.

Ekklesia Prophete Elia

Located on high ground in the Archanes region, this church is dedicated to the Prophet Elijah.

I.N. Panagias

A Greek Orthodox church dedicated to the Virgin Mary, serving the local parish.

Agios Antonios

A small Orthodox church located in the historic district of Archanes, dedicated to Saint Anthony.

I.N. Agiou Nikolaou

A neighborhood Greek Orthodox church dedicated to Saint Nicholas.

Ekklesia Michael Archangelou

A local church dedicated to the Archangel Michael.

I.N. Agiou Titou

A parish church dedicated to Saint Titus, the patron saint of Crete.

Ekklesia Aphente Christou

A church dedicated to the Transfiguration of the Savior, known locally as Aphente Christou.