Keras Kardiotissas Monastery, Greece
The Keras Kardiotissis Monastery is an Eastern Orthodox Monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary, first mentioned in manuscripts in 1333. Its interest derives from the amazing 14th-century frescoes in the small church. It is built on the northern slopes of Mount Dikti, at an altitude of 650 meters.
The monastery became renowned for its miracle-working Panagia Kardiotissa icon, which is said to have been stolen three times, and on the three times returned "on its own" to the monastery. On the third time, it was even tied to a column with chains, both of which can be seen in the monastery. It was successfully stolen a fourth time by a wine merchant and taken to Rome, where it's now enshrined in the church of St. Alphonsus. The icon was replaced by a copy dating from 1735 which is also regarded as miraculous.
Opening hours: Closed on Mondays
Entrance fee: €2
How to go: By car or an excursion to the Lassithi Plateau.
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