Yesterday I visited the Monastery of Gonia dating back to 1618. It was a beautiful day and I was in awe by its beauty and serenity. A must-visit when vacationing in Chania, Crete.
The Orthodox Christian monastery is located in the northwest of Chania, Crete, in the small village Kolymbari. Perching on top of a hill overlooking the Gulf of Chania, you can see it from afar. The drive up is beautiful past a lane of chestnut trees. The construction began in 1618 and was completed in 1634. Since then, there have been several devastations and bloodshed (Ottoman bombardments and WWII German attacks) but despite the catastrophes, it maintained. The monks managed to save many heirlooms like icons, books, vestments and church vessels like valuable crosses, silver Bibles, remains of Saints and so forth. The architecture is gorgeous with many Venetian influences and adornments. The distinctive fountain in front of the monastery’s entrance was built in 1708 and the belfry in 1849.
This trip was in collaboration with TUI and Visit Greece. For more tips, also visit I Love Griekenland.nl
