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Church of the Five Virgins: A Testament to Faith in Argyroupoli

Discover the serene Church of the Five Virgins in Crete, a historical sanctuary amidst ancient Roman tombs and lush landscapes.

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Nestled near Argyroupoli, Crete, the Church of the Five Virgins stands as a serene monument to five Christian women martyred in the 3rd century. Surrounded by ancient Roman tombs and lush greenery, this historical site offers a tranquil escape and a glimpse into early Christian history.

A brief summary to Church of the five virgins

Local tips

  • Read about the history of the five virgins before visiting to enhance your experience.
  • Visit after Easter to witness or participate in commemorations involving sheep's milk consumption on-site.
  • Explore the surrounding area, including the Roman tombs along the paths leading to the church.
  • Wear sturdy shoes as the path to the church and grave caves is rough.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From the village of Argyroupoli, the Church of the Five Virgins is accessible by a short walk. Follow the signs towards Kato Poros; the church is located off this road. The walk is approximately 400 meters from the main road, with the entrance to the site visible on your left. Be prepared for a slightly rough path with wide stone steps leading to the church and grave caves.

  • Public Transport

    While public transport to the immediate vicinity of the Church of the Five Virgins may be limited, you can take a bus to Argyroupoli. From there, follow the walking directions. Check local bus schedules for the most accurate information. The cost for a local bus ride is approximately €2-€4.

  • Taxi

    A taxi from Rethymno to Argyroupoli will cost approximately €20-€30. From Argyroupoli, it's a short walk to the church. Taxi services are readily available in Rethymno.

  • Driving

    Driving to the Church of the Five Virgins involves taking the road towards Argyroupoli. From the main road, watch for the signpost to Kato Poros, turn right, and follow this road. After approximately 400 meters, the entrance to the site will be on your left. Parking is informal, with visitors typically using street parking nearby. Parking is free but can be limited during peak season.

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Discover more about Church of the five virgins

The Church of the Five Virgins, also known as the chapel of the 5 Virgins, is a historically significant and mysterious site located near Argyroupoli in Crete. This small church is dedicated to Thekla, Marianna, Ethane (or Athena), Martha, and Mary, five virgins who, according to local tradition, were executed by the Romans in the 3rd century for secretly practicing Christianity in the ancient cemetery of Lappa. The church is built within the ancient Roman burial ground of Lappa, now Argyroupoli, and is surrounded by tombs carved into the soft sandstone rocks. This area was likely used for funerals from 50 BC to the end of the 1st century AD. The site exudes a magical atmosphere, enhanced by the presence of an inactive archaeological excavation nearby. Visitors can explore the Roman necropolis along the path leading to the church. Local tradition holds that the five virgins took refuge in these hewn tombs. During their lives around 330 A.D., they gained great reputations, and many pilgrims visited the caves seeking their blessing. Today, after Easter, people commemorate them by boiling and drinking freshly milked sheep's milk on-site. The Christian inhabitants of Argyroupoli collected the remains of the virgins, anointed them with myrrh, and buried them in five stone coffins carved into the rock behind the church. The church is celebrated on May 7th, and the Holy Five Canonical Virgins are commemorated by the Church on September 26 and June 9.

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