Faneromenis Monastery, Ierapetra

One of Crete’s most historic monasteries, Faneromeni (Our Lady Revealed) Monastery is situated on a slope overlooking the Minoan city of Gournia and is sometimes referred to as ‘Panagia of Gournia’.

The original building was probably erected during the second Byzantine period (961 – 1204 AD), whilst subsequent expansions, with their fortress-type architecture, appear to date back to the 16th century.

The catholicon is built in a cave and is dedicated to the Dormition of Mother Mary and to the Life-Giving Font; according to tradition, the spring inside the church is said to be miraculous.