Kolimbari – 3 Church Trip
(Prices valid for departures from the Platanias region)
Enjoy a spiritual and cultural journey through western Crete with our Three Churches Tour in Kolymbari. We are available 24/7 and will gladly pick you up from your location and drive you comfortably to the Kolymbari region, with optional scenic stops along the way. The tour concludes with your return to the point of departure.
Gonia Monastery, Kolymbari
Just 1 km from Kolymbari village, Gonia Monastery is a striking 17th-century complex dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary (celebrated on August 15). Originally founded in the 9th century and first dedicated to Saint George, the monastery was later rebuilt in a commanding location overlooking the sea, surrounded by lush vegetation.
Shaped like a fortress, Gonia Monastery played a pivotal role in the Revolution of 1821 and became a center of resistance. Today, it houses a remarkable collection of post-Byzantine icons, sacred relics, and rare religious artifacts. Next door, you’ll find the Orthodox Academy of Crete, a notable center for theological and cultural dialogue.
The Cave of Saint John the Hermit (Marathokefala)
Located just 3 km from Kolymbari, the Cave of Saint John the Hermit is a site of both historical and religious importance. Inside, you’ll find a 15th-century chapel and remnants of monastic cells from the 17th and 18th centuries.
The cave stretches about 135 meters and is believed to be an ancient riverbed. Stalagmites and stalactites decorate the sides, and there is even an old water collector near the entrance. According to tradition, Saint John the Hermit died here after being accidentally struck by an arrow. The rock where he passed away, known as “St. John’s Bed,” is believed to have healing powers.
Next to the cave is a small chapel dedicated to the Saint, which celebrates on October 7. If you continue along the nearby path for 10 minutes, you’ll reach a secluded cove with crystal-clear, aquamarine waters—possibly once used as a natural harbor.
Rotonda – Byzantine Church of Archangel Michael
The final stop is the impressive Byzantine Church of Rotonda, also known as the Church of Archangel Michael, located near the village of Episkopi, around 10 km south of Kolymbari.
This church was originally constructed in the 6th century during the first Byzantine period and later expanded when it became the seat of the Bishop of Kissamos in the second Byzantine period.
Its most striking feature is its stepped dome with five concentric rings—a unique architectural element in Crete and extremely rare in Byzantine church design. Archaeological excavations have also uncovered early Christian graves adjacent to the church.
Explore centuries of history, spirituality, and Cretan architecture on this enriching tour to some of the most significant religious landmarks of the region.
