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The male monastery of Panagia Odigitria is nestled in the protected area of the Asterousia Mountains, at an elevation of 250m. Accessible through the village of Sivas, it is one of the most historic monasteries in Crete, boasting a vast estate with numerous chapels and extensive land holdings.
Asterousia has long been a significant center for asceticism in Crete, particularly in the sacred gorges of Agiofarago and Martsalo, which are now part of the monastery’s domain. The area is often referred to as the Mount Athos of Crete, after the renowned monastic state in Northern Greece. The strong monastic tradition in the region is believed to be connected to the Apostle Paul, who is said to have stopped in the area during his journey to Rome.
In this hallowed location, hermits constructed the monastery of Odigitria in the 14th century. Its name is likely derived from a copy of the renowned icon of the Monastery Odigon in Constantinople, which is attributed to the evangelist Luke and was one of the most famous miraculous icons in the Byzantine Empire. A 14th-century cross-roofed narthex still partially remains, with important frescoes such as two scenes from the synaxari of Agios Antonios and Paul of Thebes, as well as the 16 houses from the Akathist Hymn. The pictorial decoration also features a scene of monk Gregory and other monks being blessed by Christ.
The monastery’s architecture resembles a fortress, with part of its wall still visible. The complex’s buildings encircle the central two-aisled church, which is dedicated to the Dormition of the Virgin Mary (Kimisis) and the Apostles Peter and Paul. A third aisle, once devoted to Saint Fanourios, has since been demolished. Near the main entrance, visitors can find the legendary Tower of Xopateras and its fascinating story. Other notable features include the baking house, the olive mill, the wine press, several warehouses, the cheese cellar, a small well used during sieges, the guest house (formerly the abbot’s cell), the abbot’s cell with the library, the monks’ cells, and the graves of the monastery’s abbots. Additionally, four icons created by the famous 15th-century Cretan artist Angelos have survived to this day.
At one time, the monastery was home to brothers Parthenios and Eumenios, who later founded the monastery of Koudoumas and are now honored as saints. During the Turkish occupation, the monastery became stavropegic (directly governed by the Patriarch) in order to preserve its property. The monastery is also home to some of the oldest chapels in Asterousia, which feature remarkable frescoes. Among these are the cavernous chapel of Agia Kiriaki (celebrated on July 7), the church of Saint Anthony in Agiofarago Gorge, the Panagia chapel in Martsalo canyon, and the chapels of Saints Eftychiani (celebrated on August 17), Saint Andrew (November 30), and Saint John the Baptist (August 29) in the Vathys Lagos area.
Get directions to Odigitria Monastery near Sivas
Find below the list of hotels near Odigitria Monastery near Sivas:
Boasting garden views, Villa Galanthus offers accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 8.3 km from Phaistos. It has a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The villa has 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
A a baby safety gate is also available for guests at the villa.
Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 11 km from Villa Galanthus. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 60 km from the accommodation.
Featuring garden views, Eirini’s Traditional House provides accommodation with a balcony and a coffee machine, around 8.3 km from Phaistos. It features a garden, mountain views and free WiFithroughout the property.
The holiday home is equipped with 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
The holiday home offers a picnic area.
Museum of Cretan Ethnology is 11 km from Eirini’s Traditional House. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 61 km from the accommodation.
Boasting air-conditioned accommodation with a private pool, pool view and a patio, Villa Kalimera swimming pool Pitsidia Matala Komos is situated in Pitsidia. This property offers access to a balcony, free private parking and free WiFi.
The villa features 3 bedrooms, 3 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with streaming services, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with mountain views.
The villa offers an outdoor fireplace. Guests at Villa Kalimera swimming pool Pitsidia Matala Komos can enjoy cycling nearby, or make the most of the garden.
Kommos Beach is 2.9 km from the accommodation, while Phaistos is 8.4 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 61 km from Villa Kalimera swimming pool Pitsidia Matala Komos.
Situated in Kali Limenes, 1.3 km from Maha Beach and 1.3 km from Karavovrisi Beach, Beach View offers air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to a balcony and free WiFi.
The apartment has 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a terrace with sea views.
Kokkines Plakes Beach is 1.8 km from the apartment, while Phaistos is 28 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 72 km from Beach View.
from
€65
/night
Situated a few steps from Kaloi Limenes Beach, Marousa Apartments features accommodation with pool with a view, a garden and a shared kitchen for your convenience. Free WiFi is offeredthroughout the property.
Offering a terrace or balcony with views of the sea and mountain, the units feature air conditioning, a seating area, cable TV and kitchen. An oven, a fridge and stovetop are also available, as well as a coffee machine and a kettle.
A car rental service is available at the apartment.
Psili Ammos Beach is 300 metres from Marousa Apartments, while Makria Ammos Beach is 800 metres from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 71 km from the accommodation.
Set in Kali Limenes, a few steps from Kaloi Limenes Beach and 300 metres from Psili Ammos Beach, Beach Front Condo South Crete offers barbecue facilities and air conditioning. This beachfront property offers access to free WiFi and free private parking.
The apartment with a balcony and sea views has 3 bedrooms, a living room, a flat-screen TV, an equipped kitchen with a dishwasher and an oven, and 2 bathrooms with a walk-in shower. Towels and bed linen are offered in the apartment.
The apartment offers a range of wellness facilities including a wellness packages and a beauty services. A car rental service is available at Beach Front Condo South Crete, while skiing and hiking can be enjoyed nearby.
Makria Ammos Beach is 800 metres from the accommodation, while Phaistos is 19 km from the property. The nearest airport is Heraklion International Airport, 71 km from Beach Front Condo South Crete.
from
€153
/night
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