Afendis Christos in Koumbes

Constructed atop Timios Stavros hill in the western suburb of Rethymnon called Koumbes, the Convent of Jesus Christ (Christ the Savior) likely dates back to the Venetian period, similar to numerous other temples and monasteries in the area.

Historians speculate that the monastery was originally home to the Convent of Our Lady of Erimitiani, as evidenced by a 17th-century Renaissance painting. However, the monastery was destroyed during the Turkish occupation of Rethymnon in 1645 and only reopened in 1935.

The monastery’s church features two aisles dedicated to the Transfiguration and St. John the Baptist. The nuns are responsible for the beautiful paintings and icons within the church. Additionally, the monastery houses a small museum and library containing books and memorabilia belonging to Bishop Titos Sylligardakis.