Heraklion Monastery Panagia Kera Kardiotissa
Location: Ano Kera
The Keras Kardiotissas Monastery is located near Kera village, on the foothills of the Dikti mountain range. It is one of the oldest monasteries in the region and it is dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary. It celebrates every year on September 8th.
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The stone-built church of the monastery was fully restored during the 1970s. Though no one knows when it was exactly constructed, it probably dates back to the 14th century. as the oldest reference to the monastery has been found in a 1333 manuscript.
The shrine of the church is the only part that retains its original features. The church has been expanded and its two narthexes follow the Byzantine style. Inside the church, you will discover murals of great artistic value that date from the 14th and 15th centuries and allude to the Macedonian school of iconography.
According to tradition, Saint Lazaros painted the main icon of the church, which is currently kept in the church of Saint Alphonsus in Rome. A newer icon replaced the original one around 1735 and it is said to have miraculous properties.
During the summer, you can visit the monastery from 07:00 to 19:00. The opening hours during the winter are from 08:00 to 17:00.
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Book nowfrom € 40.00Category: Day Trips, Island12 hours MapGet back to nature and journey through the Lasithi Plateau of eastern Crete. Visit the Minoan Palace of Knossos and hear about the Greek gods, ancient civilizations and Byzantine era.
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Reviews
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Paul woodwards 07 Nov 2024A stunning, yet simple placeA stunning, yet simple place as to be expected. The peace within the monastery walls is significant. Understandable no photos within the church to preserve the frescos however they are stunning and reverend. Their age and depictions are breathtaking. The admission and costs for the handmade items are very reasonable. We are told the olive oil, honey and soaps are the best available on Crete.
