Monastery of Panagia Paliani in Venerato

Where it is located

About 20 km south of Heraklion, at an altitude of 280 m, next to the village of Venerato and near the homonymous gorge.

The foundation

it is considered one of the oldest monasteries in Crete, but the exact date of its foundation is not known, which dates back to the Byzantine period. Its name is linked to the name Palia Moni, which over the centuries became Paliani. According to a second version, the name Paliani is linked to Apollonia, an ancient city located nearby.

The stories:

The Paliani nunnery was a patriarchal monastery and at times held vast property and many sub-monasteries. During the Turkish occupation, it was destroyed by the Turks and its nuns were massacred. However, it was immediately reconstructed and is still today one of the richest monasteries in Crete.

Don't miss

The main church is a three-aisled basilica, with the three naves dedicated to the Assumption (15 August), the Three Hierarchs (30 January) and St Panteleimon (27 July). There is also a small chapel of the Holy Apostles (30 June).

The church was supported by Byzantine columns with acanthus leaves, parts of which are scattered throughout the monastery. There are also parts of the early Christian period around the monastery, indicating that the church was built on the site of an early Christian Basilica.

The monastery also houses a museum with icons, sacred relics and various books of great historical and archaeological value.

Did you know that:

To the southeast of the main church is a large myrtle tree, at the root of which tradition says that the icon of the Virgin Mary, the Myrtidiotissa was found. There, in AgiaMyrtia, the sleepless candle burns and the faithful hang votive offerings on its branches, while its leaves are attributed healing properties and the faithful make them into decoctions or amulets. The icon is believed to be enclosed in the trunk of the tree and can only be seen by children.

Information:

Tel: +30 281 079 1331