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Chrysoskalitissa Monastery

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Chrysoskalitissa Monastery

Chrysoskalitissa Monastery, Orthodox monastery in southwestern Crete, Greece

Chrysoskalitissa Monastery is a Greek Orthodox complex built on a rock 35 metres above the Libyan Sea, in the Innachori district of Kissamos, about 72 km southwest of Chania. Its church, begun on 9 May 1894 and consecrated on 15 August that year, is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary and the Holy Trinity. A stairway of 98 steps climbs to the main building.

The monastery probably existed under Venetian rule, when it was reportedly dedicated to Saint Nicholas. Construction of the present church began on 9 May 1894 and it was consecrated on 15 August that year. Tradition holds that the resistance fighters Georgios and Petros Kantanoleon were buried here in 1527; they inspired Zambelios's novel Cretan Weddings. In 1907 the monastery took part in rescuing shipwrecked passengers of the Imperatrix.

The monastery is known for its 98 stone steps leading to the entrance, with local tradition holding that the final step is made of gold and visible only to the faithful. This legend shapes how visitors experience and perceive the place today.

The monastery is located about 72 kilometers southwest of Chania and welcomes visitors, with simple monastic cells available for overnight stays. The steep cliff location requires good footing when climbing the stone steps to reach the entrance.

Archaeological excavations near the monastery revealed remains of an ancient Minoan fishing settlement at the site. These findings connect the place's long history from ancient times through to the present day.

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GPS coordinates
35.31124,23.53337
Latest update
October 26, 2026 05:42
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« Chrysoskalitissa Monastery - Orthodox monastery in southwestern Crete, Greece » is provided by Around Us (aroundus.com). Images and texts are derived from Wikimedia project under a Creative Commons license. You are allowed to copy, distribute, and modify copies of this page, under the conditions set by the license, as long as this note is clearly visible.

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