Monastery of Vrontesios

The Monastery of Vrontesios is an Orthodox monastery located in Faistos Municipality on the southern slope of Mount Ida. The complex sits at about 550 meters elevation and contains a two-nave church dedicated to Saint Anthony and Saint Thomas.

The monastery was founded in 1301 and gained importance in the 16th century when the nearby Varsamonerou Monastery lost influence. This made it a major religious center for the surrounding area.

The church inside holds painted religious scenes from medieval times, with frescoes visible on the walls of the southern section. Visitors can still see these historical artworks today, though they bear the marks of centuries.

The monastery sits between the villages of Zaros and Vorizia in south-central Crete. The elevated location on the mountain makes it visible from the surrounding area once you approach the right region.

At the entrance stands a marble fountain from the Venetian period with an unusual design showing Adam and Eve, each depicted with four faces. These four faces represent the four rivers of the biblical Garden of Eden.

Location: Faistos Municipality

Inception: 14 century

GPS coordinates: 35.14370,24.88103

Latest update: December 14, 2025 18:10