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Church of the Five Virgins: A Cretan Sanctuary

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

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The Church of the Five Virgins, near Argyroupoli, Crete, is a historically significant chapel dedicated to five Christian virgins who were martyred in the 3rd century. It offers a serene atmosphere amidst Roman tombs and lush greenery.

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Local tips

  • Read about the history of the five virgins before visiting to enhance your experience.
  • Visit after Easter to witness the unique commemoration involving the consumption of sheep's milk.
  • Explore the surrounding area, including the Roman tombs, to fully appreciate the historical context.
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Getting There

  • Walking

    From Argyroupoli, the Church of the Five Virgins is accessible by a short walk. Follow the signs leading towards Kato Poros; the church is located along this route, nestled in a gorge.

  • Public Transport

    Buses connect Rethymno to Argyroupoli. From Argyroupoli bus stop, follow the walking directions to reach the church. A single bus fare from Rethymno to Argyroupoli costs approximately €2-€4.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available from Rethymno to the Church of the Five Virgins. The journey takes about 20-30 minutes. Expect to pay around €20-€30 for a one-way trip. Ensure the driver uses the meter, which starts at €1.80 plus €0.90 per km during the day.

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Discover more about Church of the five virgins

Nestled in the verdant landscape near Argyroupoli, Crete, the Church of the Five Virgins is a site steeped in history and tranquility. This small chapel is dedicated to Thekla, Mariamna, Martha, Maria, and Ennatha, 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, evident from the numerous tombs carved into the soft sandstone rocks. These tombs, dating back to the period between 50 BC and the end of the 1st century AD, add a layer of historical depth to the site. The serene ambiance of the church and its surroundings makes it a place for reflection and appreciation of Crete's rich religious and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the Roman necropolis with gracefully curved tombs and a magnificent plane tree, all contributing to the site's magical atmosphere. The church is commemorated on June 9th and also celebrated on May 7th. After Easter, a unique tradition takes place where freshly milked sheep's milk is boiled and consumed on-site in remembrance of the virgins.

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