Description of the attraction
Moni Gonya, or the Monastery of Panagia Odigitria, is an Orthodox monastery on the southeastern coast of the Rodopos Peninsula (Crete), just 1 km from the town of Kolymvari and about 26 km from Chania. It is one of the island's most interesting landmarks and an important historical monument.
The Moni Gonya monastery is a very impressive massive fortress - a wonderful example of Venetian fortification architecture, which, however, is not surprising, since the monastery complex as we see it today was mostly built in 1618-1634. during the reign of the Venetians on the island, which of course had a strong influence on its architectural appearance. The marble fountain, which is located next to the entrance to the monastery, dates back to 1708, and the bell tower was erected already in 1849.
During its long history, the monastery was repeatedly attacked, partially destroyed and plundered, including by the Turks who dominated the island for several centuries and the German occupiers during the Second World War. Nevertheless, the monks managed to preserve a significant part of the unique treasures of their monastery, and today you can admire an excellent collection of icons (15-17th century), including works by such talented Cretan masters as Parthenios, Ritzos im Neilos, various church relics and utensils, see ancient manuscripts, etc. However, you will get a lot of pleasure, and just wandering around the cozy monastery courtyard enjoying the ancient architecture and the incredibly pacifying atmosphere of this holy place.
Reviews
| All reviews 5 Soul-body-mind 2013-03-06 12:16:51 PM
Monastery of the Most Holy Theotokos Gonia (Gonya) in the village of Kalimbari Holy Gonia Monastery, Colimbari of Kissamos-Chania-Сrete.
It is very easy to get here from Chania or Platania by car - you just need to follow the National Road west and follow the signs for Colimbari, and …
