A visitor to Chania faces a ruined, yet extremely imposing image, if he decides to observe the now abandoned Monastery of Agios Ioannis the Hermit, also known as the Catholic Church.
Beautiful Monastery in Crete
On the steep slope of Avlaki gorge, near its exit, and at a distance of 20 km from the city of Chania, on the north coast of Akrotiri, a very large stone bridge that leads to the ruined monastery.
The path to reach it starts from Gouvernetou Monastery and takes about 30 minutes on foot, with the wider inaccessible area also known as Arkoudovounia. The monastery was created in the cave where Agios Ioannis the Hermit or Stranger slept during the 11th century, with the surrounding cavities from it initially being a refuge for the hermits and later some cells were built in them.
Whoever continues the hike for another 10 minutes reaches the sea, where a wonderful small fjord is formed with dreamy waters, which ends where once existed the port of the Monastery of Agios Ioannis Erimitis and which is followed by his own legend.
According to him, pirates landed on the spot in order to attack the monastery, the Abbot cursed them and their boat petrified so that they could never leave Crete and return to their place. At the exit of the gorge, then, is a large rock that resembles a boat and further strengthens the legend.
Exploring wonders is always the most exciting experience that once could ever have. With a lot to explore in nature, heading out to this monastery is the most affordable choice you have in the Chania. As you have to reach the monastery by walking for 30 minutes, you don’t have to think much about the sources for mobility.
However, covering the distance from your location to Gouvernetou Monastery is what you should think about. Crete Rent Car by MYTHOS Car Rentals offers different solutions to make your ride easy. Get your rented car from us and reach this beautiful monastery through inaccessible trails for endless fun.