THE KATHOLIKO MONASTERY
THE CAVE OF ST. JOHN THE HERMIT
In inside Avlaki Gorge, in the small canyon is the Katholiko Monastery and the Cave of St. John the Hermit.
It is one of the oldest monasteries in Crete:
– probably from the 5th or 6th century
– founded by the St. John the Hermit
140 steps lead to the entrance to the monastery.
The constant attacks and looting of pirates forced the monks to, that in the gorge build a monastery.
[swpm_protected format_protected_msg=”1″] When I saw the building ensemble between the steep cliffs of the canyon, then I thought with great respect for the monks, who built this.
Part of the monastery is a viaduct, which connects the canyon. This is a brilliant creation. There were rooms in the side pillars.
Let us not forget that this was built in the 5th – 6th centuries. This proves that the monks were very good mathematicians and architects.
It was no small task to transport the building material. It had to be transported on the steep slopes of the canyon, the building materials. [/swpm_protected]
The church is unique, because it is largely carved into the rock wall.
Very interesting building complex. Worth checking out.
The road down is easy, but getting back is more tiring. Especially on a hot summer day. It is best to walk through the gorges early in the morning, or late in the afternoon.
Attention:
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– Avoid accidents! Only in the right shoes! Hiking shoes are recommended.
– Since the first stage of the tour is 15-20 minutes, the second stage is 20-30 minutes, so for everyone recommended, take water and fluids with them. Especially on warm summer days.
– There is no place in the Avlaki Gorge, where drinks and food are available.
– Everyone should take a flashlight, because there is only natural light in the caves. The mobile phone lamp is also adequate. [/swpm_protected]
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