Description of the attraction
Moni Toplou is one of the most famous and interesting shrines of Crete. The monastery is located in the eastern part of the island about 6 km north of the village of Paleokastro and 85 km east of the town of Agios Nikolaos.
Moni Toplu was founded in the middle of the 15th century as the monastery of Panagia Akrotiriani (the monastery got its present name during the rule of the Turks on the island). It is believed that it was built on the ruins of an older shrine, however, what exactly was located here is not known for certain. In 1530 the monastery was plundered by the Knights of Malta, and in 1612 it was thoroughly destroyed as a result of a strong earthquake, but largely due to its strategic location, it was quickly restored by the decision and with the financial support of the Senate of the Venetian Republic, turning into a powerful fortress. In 1646, after the surrender of eastern Crete to the Turks, the monastery was abandoned. The monks returned to the monastery only in 1704. Moni Topola was also empty in 1821-1828, after the Turks dealt with its inhabitants. In 1866 the monastery was badly damaged. During the Second World War, soldiers of the resistance army took refuge within the walls of Moni Toplou.
Moni Toplou is a fine example of Venetian architecture. Behind the massive 10-meter walls, there is a cozy, fairly green courtyard paved with stone slabs, the bright colors of which are added by many tubs of flowers. The main catholicon of the monastery is a two-nave basilica, built back in 1558. The impressive 33-meter bell tower, perfectly preserved to this day, belongs to the same period. The old windmill is also of particular interest.
The magnificent monastery museum deserves special attention, where unique artifacts illustrating the history of the island over several centuries, an impressive collection of icons, ancient engravings, church relics, ancient manuscripts and much more are presented. In the refectory, you can admire the beautiful frescoes of Manolis Betinakis, and in the courtyard, you will see an entertaining sculptural composition by Manolis Tzobonakis.
