Gonia Odigitria Monastery, Orthodox monastery in Kolymvari, Greece
Gonia Odigitria Monastery is an Orthodox monastery on the southeastern coast of Rodopos peninsula, surrounded by Venetian-style fortification walls. The complex includes a main domed church, monks' quarters, a refectory, and several storage buildings.
The monastery was founded in the 13th century and rebuilt between 1618 and 1634. It withstood multiple attacks during Ottoman rule from 1645 to 1867.
The monastery houses significant Byzantine icons from the 15th to 17th centuries created by Cretan artists including Parthenios and Andreas Ritzos. These works reflect the deep religious art tradition that flourished in this remote coastal location.
The site lies about 26 kilometers west of Chania on Crete's northwest coast. The grounds are accessible by land with parking available near the entrance areas.
A cannonball from the final Ottoman attack in 1867 remains embedded in the seaside wall to this day. This quiet relic serves as a physical reminder of the sieges the building endured.
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