The monastery of Faneromeni is located near the Cape of Trachils in Sitia’s northwest district, with access to the magnificent canyon of Agios Pantos and breathtaking views of the surrounding area. It is located near the seaside and may be visited when traveling from Agios Nikolaos to Ierapetra.
Gournia is the name of the general area, as well as the archaeological site of the same name, where a magnificent old Minoan town existed. The church is located within a canyon cave, which is where a shepherd discovered the holy icon of Virgin Mary and chose to create a monastery. According to mythology, the shepherd was searching for a missing animal when he came into the cave, where the symbol was revealed to him. He chose to take the symbol home, but it vanished the next day, and he was able to track it down to its original place.
The monastery, which dates back to the 13th century, used to have enormous and colorful murals. It was linked to Toplou Monastery from 1870 to 1901; the katholikon is a two-aisled chapel dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary and Agios Georgios, with paintings dating back to 1455. It was severely damaged under Ottoman administration and was most likely torched, as seen by the charred walls. It was also utilized as a hideout and headquarters by local rebels during the Cretan revolt. On the 15th of August (the Dormition of Virgin Mary), one of the most prominent Greek holidays, the majority of visitors go to the monastery.
Visitors are welcome to visit the church, which may be reached by driving or cycling along a delightful winding route with magnificent views. After that, you may relax on the neighboring Pachia Ammos beach or explore more of eastern Crete.
