Vosakou Monastery, Greek Orthodox monastery in Mylopotamos, Greece
Vosakou is a monastery situated on the northern slope of a plateau in the Tallaia mountains of central Crete. The complex features three wings arranged around a central courtyard with the main church on the eastern side, along with a monumental gate and a traditional fountain.
The monastery was established in the 17th century and suffered partial destruction during the Greek Revolution of 1821 and the Cretan Revolution of 1866 at the hands of Turkish forces. The complex was later restored, preserving much of its original structure.
The monastery serves as a spiritual center for the surrounding communities, with the main church dedicated to the Holy Cross. Local devotees gather here especially during religious celebrations to maintain Orthodox traditions and practices.
The monastery sits on a mountain plateau and requires traveling through hilly terrain to reach it, making sturdy footwear advisable. Visitors should bring water and allow time for the journey, as the location is intentionally remote and peaceful.
The name Vosakou comes from ancient Greek words meaning ox-fold, showing that this religious site was built on land previously used for farming and herding. This connection reveals how monastic communities often occupied spaces that had earlier economic purposes.
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