Kera Kardiotissa Monastery - An aerial view of a building on a cliff
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Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

4.6
·3k reviews·Moni Kardiotissis, Greece

A historic nunnery in Crete, famed for its miraculous Virgin Mary icon and ancient Byzantine murals, offering a spiritual and scenic escape.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
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Kera Kardiotissa Monastery - An aerial view of a building on a cliff

Kera Kardiotissa Monastery

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, more peaceful

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A historic nunnery in Crete, famed for its miraculous Virgin Mary icon and ancient Byzantine murals, offering a spiritual and scenic escape.

4.6
(3k reviews)

"A glimpse into history and breathtaking views, well worth adding to your itinerary."

Vertical photo
TIP

👗 Dress Code Reminder

Cover shoulders & knees. Shorts below the knee for men, skirts for women.

💰 Cash is King

Entry fee is €2 cash only. Bring cash for souvenirs too!

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Medieval Murals

Medieval Murals

Inside the old church

Marvel at ancient Byzantine-era frescoes that offer a vivid glimpse into religious art and history.

Miraculous Virgin Mary Icon

Miraculous Virgin Mary Icon

Main sanctuary

Witness the revered icon of the Virgin Mary, believed by many to possess miraculous healing powers.

Architectural Sanctuary

Architectural Sanctuary

Monastery grounds

Explore the unique architecture carved into the landscape, offering a serene and historic atmosphere.

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Planning Your Visit

Respectful Attire is Key

Dress modestly when visiting Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. Shoulders and knees should be covered. Shorts below the knee are recommended for men, and women should opt for skirts or dresses. This shows respect for the nuns and the sacred nature of the site. Reddit

Cash for Entry & Souvenirs

The entrance fee for Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is a small cash-only fee of €2 per adult, with children entering for free. Many visitors also find unique souvenirs in the shop, so have some cash on hand for your purchases. Reddit

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Worshipers may thin out
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

Carved from the rock itself, these monasteries offered a sanctuary for monks seeking a life of seclusion and spirituality 🇬🇷 📽 @chris_kap.21 📍 Meteora, Greece #meteora #travel #explore #greece #greecetravel #meteora #beautifuldestinations #placestovisitinireland
@beautifuldestinations
7.4K likes • 226.6K views

👗 Dress Code Reminder

Cover shoulders & knees. Shorts below the knee for men, skirts for women. Reddit

💰 Cash is King

Entry fee is €2 cash only. Bring cash for souvenirs too! Reddit

😟 Imagine trying to get up to these Greek Orthodox monastery centuries ago. Luckily now there’s roads and stairs! — Written & Edited by @G Gatto #ancientgreece #greecetiktok
@urbanistariel
4.6K likes • 80.7K views
At Meteora to your bucket list! #tiktoktravel #traveltok #greece #meteora #kalabaka
@calsnape
2.6K likes • 103.9K views

📸 Photo Restrictions

No photos allowed inside the old church. Respect the rules. Reddit

🙏 Respectful Visit

Be mindful of nuns living here. It's a place of worship. Reddit

Iera Moni Kipinas - Holy Monastery Kipinas in Kalarittes, North Tzoumerka, Epirus, Greece #orthodox #orthodoxchristian #greece #epirus #monastery #christiantiktok #greekorthodox #orthodoxchurch #monastir #travel #traveltok #christianity #tiktok
@photographybyko
975 likes • 18.9K views

Tips

from all over the internet

👗 Dress Code Reminder

Cover shoulders & knees. Shorts below the knee for men, skirts for women. Reddit

💰 Cash is King

Entry fee is €2 cash only. Bring cash for souvenirs too! Reddit

📸 Photo Restrictions

No photos allowed inside the old church. Respect the rules. Reddit

🙏 Respectful Visit

Be mindful of nuns living here. It's a place of worship. Reddit

🚗 Scenic Drive

Enjoy the stunning mountain views on your way up! Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.6
(3k reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise Kera Kardiotissa Monastery for its historical significance, stunning medieval murals, and the revered miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary. The scenic drive adds to the overall experience, though some find the souvenir prices a bit high and note the strict no-photography rule inside the church.

"A glimpse into history and breathtaking views
The site features amazing architecture that offers a fascinating insight into how monks once lived. Even if you’re not Christian, it’s well worth adding to your itinerary. The journey there treats you to stunning views, perfect for capturing some memorable family photos. Entrance is only €2 for adults (cash only), and children can enter for free."

Jiri Svoboda

"Respect to the nun's that are still living at this monastery. Entrance fee is €2,-
Nice to see a little bit of the history, nice shop where you can get memorabilia.
We were told tha the monastery is from the year 900 what makes it 1000+ years old."

Peter Paul van Doorn

"Located high in the mountains in a spot with amazing views. It’s not that big and usually crowded due to the worshipers that come to see the miracle icon. But definitely worth visiting!"

Alexandros Tsitsos

What People Like

Historical architecture
Medieval murals
Miraculous icon

What People Dislike

No photos inside
Pricey souvenirs

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is located in the mountains of Crete, Greece. The most common way to reach it is by car, offering scenic drives through the landscape. Public transport options are limited, so renting a car or hiring a taxi is advisable. Reddit

While the journey offers beautiful views, the monastery is situated high in the mountains. Following GPS or local signage is recommended. The drive itself is part of the experience, with stunning vistas along the way. Reddit

The drive to the monastery is often described as breathtaking, with winding roads offering panoramic views of the surrounding mountains and valleys. It's a journey that many visitors find as rewarding as the destination itself. Reddit

While specific routes can vary based on your starting point in Crete, most visitors approach from the north coast. Using a reliable GPS or map application is highly recommended to navigate the mountain roads effectively. Reddit

Yes, Kera Kardiotissa Monastery can easily be incorporated into a day trip, especially if you are based in nearby towns or cities on Crete. The drive and visit typically take a few hours, allowing ample time for exploration. Reddit

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

The entrance fee for Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is a modest €2 per adult. Children can enter for free. It's important to note that this fee is cash only, so be sure to have the correct change. Reddit

No, advance booking is generally not required for Kera Kardiotissa Monastery. You can purchase your tickets upon arrival at the entrance. The fee is collected in cash. Reddit

Opening hours can vary, but typically the monastery is open during daylight hours. It's advisable to check locally or arrive earlier in the day to ensure you have sufficient time to explore before closing. Reddit

Yes, a respectful dress code is enforced. Visitors should ensure their shoulders and knees are covered. For men, shorts below the knee are recommended, and for women, skirts or dresses are appropriate. Reddit

No, the entrance fee for Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is strictly cash only. Make sure to have €2 in cash per adult to pay for your admission. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Photography is generally not permitted inside the old church at Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, especially where the medieval murals and the icon are located. This is to preserve the sacred atmosphere and the artwork. Reddit

While photography inside the main church is restricted, you can usually take photos of the exterior architecture and the surrounding mountain scenery. Always be mindful of any posted signs or requests from the nuns. Reddit

The drive up to the monastery offers many opportunities for stunning landscape photography. Once at the monastery, the exterior architecture and the views from the grounds can be quite picturesque. Reddit

The restriction on photography inside is to maintain the sanctity of the religious site and to protect the delicate medieval murals and the revered icon from flash photography and potential damage. Reddit

While not explicitly stated, it's best to assume that photography might also be restricted in the souvenir shop to maintain a respectful environment. It's always a good idea to ask permission if you're unsure. Reddit

🍽️ 🛍️ Shopping & Dining

Dining options directly at the monastery are limited to a small shop selling memorabilia. For a wider selection of food and drinks, you'll need to drive back towards the nearest towns or villages. Reddit

The monastery has a shop offering various memorabilia, which are described as unique and not just average tourist items. However, they can be quite pricey. Reddit

There isn't a restaurant at the monastery itself. The focus is on the spiritual and historical experience. For meals, plan to visit a taverna in a nearby village. Reddit

According to reviews, the souvenirs available at the monastery's shop are considered quite pricey, though they are noted for being unique. Reddit

If you plan to eat in a nearby village, consider bringing some cash as not all smaller tavernas may accept cards. Also, check opening times, especially outside peak tourist season. Reddit

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

Kera Kardiotissa Monastery offers a unique historical and cultural experience for families. The modest entrance fee (€2 for adults, free for children) makes it an affordable outing. The scenic drive up to the monastery provides beautiful photo opportunities, which can be a fun way to engage kids with the journey. Reddit

While photography is restricted inside, the impressive medieval murals and the story of the miraculous icon can spark curiosity. Encourage children to observe quietly and respectfully. Remember the dress code: ensure children are also dressed modestly with shoulders and knees covered. Pack snacks and water, as dining options are limited on-site. Reddit

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

For those drawn to spiritual sites, Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is a profound destination. The miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary is a focal point for many pilgrims, offering a chance for prayer and reflection. The ancient Byzantine murals also contribute to the deeply spiritual atmosphere, allowing visitors to connect with centuries of devotion. Reddit

The monastery's secluded mountain location enhances its tranquil and contemplative ambiance. Visitors often describe a sense of peace and reverence upon arrival. Remember to adhere to the dress code and the photography restrictions to fully immerse yourself in the sacred environment. The cash-only entrance fee is a small contribution to the upkeep of this historic religious site. Reddit

📸 Photography Enthusiasts

While photography inside the main church of Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is prohibited, the journey and exterior offer ample photographic opportunities. The scenic drive through the Cretan mountains provides stunning vistas, perfect for landscape shots. Capture the rugged beauty of the terrain and the winding roads leading to the monastery. Reddit

Once at the monastery, focus on the architectural details of the exterior and the panoramic views from the grounds. The unique setting of the monastery itself, nestled into the mountainside, makes for compelling compositions. Be mindful of the respectful atmosphere and avoid intrusive photography of the nuns or any ongoing religious activities. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

A Glimpse into History and Spirituality

Kera Kardiotissa Monastery is a testament to centuries of faith and resilience. Founded around the 9th or 10th century, it has a rich history as a nunnery built on an ancient church site. The monastery is particularly renowned for its miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary, which draws many worshipers seeking spiritual solace and healing. The very existence of this sacred place, nestled high in the mountains, speaks to a long tradition of seeking seclusion and devotion. Reddit

The medieval murals adorning the interior walls are a significant artistic treasure, offering a window into Byzantine art and religious storytelling. These frescoes, though ancient, are remarkably preserved and contribute to the monastery's profound historical and cultural value. Visitors often express awe at the artistry and the spiritual atmosphere that permeates the site, even if they are not religious themselves. Reddit

Visiting Kera Kardiotissa is more than just sightseeing; it's an immersion into a living piece of history. The nuns who still reside there maintain the traditions, adding a layer of authenticity to the experience. The journey to the monastery itself, with its stunning mountain vistas, enhances the sense of discovery and spiritual ascent. Reddit

Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Etiquette

When planning your visit to Kera Kardiotissa Monastery, remember that it is an active religious site. Respectful attire is paramount; ensure your shoulders and knees are covered. This means avoiding shorts above the knee for men and opting for skirts or dresses for women. This simple act of consideration is crucial for showing respect to the nuns and the sanctity of the monastery. Reddit

Entry to the monastery requires a small fee of €2 per adult, payable in cash only. Children are admitted free of charge. It's also worth noting that photography is generally prohibited inside the old church, particularly where the murals and the icon are displayed. This rule is in place to protect the delicate artwork and maintain the solemnity of the space. Reddit

While the monastery itself has a small shop selling unique, albeit pricey, memorabilia, dining options are scarce on-site. For meals, it's best to plan a stop at a taverna in a nearby village. The drive to the monastery is often highlighted for its breathtaking views, making the journey a significant part of the overall experience. Reddit

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