Gonia Odigitria Monastery — Attraction in Municipality of Platanias

The Gonia Odigitria Monastery is seeped in history and presents a good example of a Greek Orthodox setting.

It is dedicated to the Assumption of the Virgin Mary. We visited on their feast day of August 15th. I am not a religious person yet the dedication and love that the people that attended the monastery showed on this special day to their God and the icons that represent their beliefs brought a tear to my eye and warmed my heart.

The original monastery was founded in the 9th century and was originally dedicated to St. George. It is interesting that it was first situated at Menies on the ruins of the ancient temple of Artemis Britomartis (Diktynna). Artemis was the Goddess of nature, childbirth, wildlife, the hunt, sudden death, animals, virginity, young women, and archery. Somehow this felt right.

Later it was relocate to its present location sometime between 1618 and 1634. The architecture demonstrates Venetian design. The fountain in front of the monastery's entrance was added in 1708, and the belfry about 150 years later in 1849.

The monastery came under attack by the Ottomans' and later by Natzi Germany during WWII. And yet it was repaired and continues to provide a place of worship and solitude to all.

The stone mosaic flooring is beautiful and kept in good condition. There is a small museum and also a book store. Best to check on opening times prior...

If you're looking for a peaceful and historically rich destination in Chania, Crete, the monastery located by the sea is definitely worth a visit. As someone who had the opportunity to explore this wonderful location, I would highly recommend it to anyone who wants to experience the Greek orthodox monasteries and also anyone interesting in history.

First of all, the location of the monastery is breathtaking, as it overlooks the sea and provides stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the highlights of the monastery is its museum, which is filled with an extensive collection of old books and icons. The museum also houses a cinema where visitors can watch film about the history of the monastery and learn more about its past.

What I appreciated most about this location was the sense of tranquility and calmness that it exudes. The peacefulness of the surroundings .

Overall, I would highly recommend this monastery to anyone who wants to explore a beautiful and historically rich part of Crete. The stunning views, impressive architecture, and interesting museum make it a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning more about the history and culture of this part of Greece and yes there are nice deers if you have children with you they will ...

Gonia Odigitria Monastery is a true gem nestled in the beautiful Cretan landscape. As a visitor, I was captivated by the serene atmosphere and the rich history that permeates every inch of this monastery. The monastery's architecture is stunning, with its intricate details and beautiful frescoes that depict religious scenes.

One of the things that impressed me the most was the warm hospitality and genuine kindness of the monks. They were more than willing to share their knowledge and stories, making the visit even more meaningful. The peacefulness and tranquility of the monastery provided a much-needed escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.

Exploring the monastery grounds was a delight. The well-maintained gardens and courtyards offered a peaceful retreat, and the panoramic views of the surrounding countryside were simply breathtaking.

It's a place where history, spirituality, and natural beauty seamlessly blend together. Whether you're seeking a spiritual experience, interested in history, or simply looking for a serene and peaceful place to visit, I highly recommend a trip to Gonia...