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

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful
Kera Kardiotissa Monastery
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more peaceful

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.
"A glimpse into history and breathtaking views, well worth adding to your itinerary."
👗 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!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

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

Architectural Sanctuary
Monastery grounds
Explore the unique architecture carved into the landscape, offering a serene and historic atmosphere.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Respectful Attire is Key
Cash for Entry & Souvenirs
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👗 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!
📸 Photo Restrictions
No photos allowed inside the old church. Respect the rules.
🙏 Respectful Visit
Be mindful of nuns living here. It's a place of worship.
Tips
from all over the internet
👗 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!
📸 Photo Restrictions
No photos allowed inside the old church. Respect the rules.
🙏 Respectful Visit
Be mindful of nuns living here. It's a place of worship.
🚗 Scenic Drive
Enjoy the stunning mountain views on your way up!
What Travellers Say
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
What People Dislike
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🎫 🎫 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
📸 📸 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
🍽️ 🛍️ 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.
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.
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.
According to reviews, the souvenirs available at the monastery's shop are considered quite pricey, though they are noted for being unique.
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.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
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.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
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.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
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.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Glimpse into History and Spirituality
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.
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.
Navigating Your Visit: Practicalities and Etiquette
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.
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.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit