Byzantine Basilica: A Glimpse into Crete's Early Christian Past

Explore the ruins of Crete's largest early Byzantine basilica, a testament to the island's rich religious history and architectural heritage.

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Βυζαντική Βασιλική

The Byzantine Basilica, located near Mitropoli, Crete, is a large early Byzantine basilica, dating back to the 6th century AD. The impressive ruins offer a glimpse into the island's early Christian history and the architectural grandeur of the era.

A brief summary to Βυζαντική Βασιλική

Μητρόπολη, 700 12, GR

Local tips

Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and experience the peaceful atmosphere.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you'll be walking on uneven ground while exploring the ruins.
Bring water and sun protection, as there is limited shade at the site.

Getting There

Bus

From Heraklion, take a KTEL bus towards Mires or Agios Nikolaos. The bus station is in the city center of Heraklion. Check the schedule and buy your ticket at the kiosk. The journey takes approximately 1 hour. Get off at the stop for Mires. From Mires, walk towards the center of town and ask locals for directions to Βυζαντική Βασιλική, located at Μητρόπολη 700 12. A single bus fare from Heraklion to Mires typically costs around €5-€7.
Walking

After getting off the bus in Mires, head north on the main road towards the town center. The Βυζαντική Βασιλική is a short 10-minute walk from the bus stop. Look for street signs that lead to Μητρόπολη 700 12.
Taxi

Take a local taxi from the Mires bus station. Taxis are usually available outside the bus station. Show the driver the address Μητρόπολη 700 12 or mention Βυζαντική Βασιλική. The taxi ride should take about 5 minutes and cost around €5-€10.

Discover more about Βυζαντική Βασιλική

The Byzantine Basilica, also known as the Episcopal Basilica of Gortyn, is located near the village of Mitropoli in Crete. This significant religious center dates back to the Early Byzantine period. It is considered the largest early Byzantine basilica in Crete and among the largest in Greece. Constructed in the early 6th century AD, during the reign of Emperor Justinian, the basilica served as the cathedral of the city. The original five-aisled structure stood for approximately 70 years. The basilica's interior was adorned with mosaic pavements featuring geometric patterns and animals. It is believed that the walls were decorated with mosaics of stone and glass tesserae. Columns of white and gray-white marble supported the structure. The pulpit, resembling that of Saint Sophia in Constantinople, was a high exedra with low columns and two stairs. After its destruction in 620 AD, the basilica was rebuilt during the time of Emperor Heraclios. However, this second basilica was also destroyed by a strong earthquake in 670 AD. The basilica's final destruction is believed to have occurred at the end of the 8th century, possibly linked to the catastrophic earthquake of 795 AD. The basilica's ruins were discovered in 1978 and 1979 during excavations for a water supply network. Excavations have revealed a five-aisled basilica with a transept, narthex, and atrium, covering an area of at least 3,500 square meters.

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Your Ultimate Free Travel Guide

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Byzantine Basilica: A Glimpse into Crete's Early Christian Past

A brief summary to Βυζαντική Βασιλική

Local tips

Getting There

Bus

Walking

Taxi

Unlock the Best of Βυζαντική Βασιλική

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Βυζαντική Βασιλική

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Saint Paul Islet

Cave Goumenospilio

Profitis Ilias

War Tunnel

Mount Ida

Kouloures

Knossos Palace

Oldest Road of the World

Martinengo Bastion

Nikos Kazantzakis Grave

Προτομή Γιούρι Γκαγκάριν

Venetian Walls of Heraklion

Pantokrator Venetian Portal

Church of Saint Matthew Sinaitón

Kenouryia Porta

Unmissable attractions to see

Tempel of Praetorium

Archaeological Site of Gortyna

Archaeological Museum of Mesara

Ancient Theater of Gortyn

Theater of Gortyna

Zacharioudakis Winery

Labyrinth Cave

Church Agios Panteleimonas

gorge Apolychnou

Panoramic View

Clock Tower

Zaros Lake

Techniti Limni Votomos

Monastery Panagia Kaliviani

Canyon St. Sava

Essential places to dine

Thigaterra - The Art of Slow Food

Ta Kalitera

Erganos

Xalali

Apiri greek_eatery

Kanatelias Lunch

Alla ki Alla

The Fifty

Ntoré Gastronomy

Veranda

Lola

Minos Restaurant

Athali Cretan Cuisine

Olive Trees Restaurant

Peskesi

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Mitos - Traditional Art - Handicrafts

GALANI BOTTEGA / exclusive department store

Heaven Of Crete

Labyrinth Store kps

Kampos Cretan Products

J&S

Block62

Nike Factory Store Crete

Vekrakis Imports S.A.

Talos Plaza

Antonella Boutique

Veneri Styliani

Soho Multibrand Boutique

Flying Circus Vintage

Showroom Fashion Boutique Ηράκλειο

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Best Mojito Yannis

Senses Club

Blue N Blum