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Church of the Five Virgins: A Cretan Sanctuary

Discover the spiritual sanctuary of the Five Virgins in Lappei, Crete, a site of ancient history and enduring faith.

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Nestled in the village of Lappei, Crete, the Church of the Five Virgins is a significant religious site dedicated to Thekla, Mariamna, Martha, Maria, and Ennatha, who, according to local lore, lived and died there around 330 A.D.. The church is built upon an ancient Greco-Roman cemetery, adding to its historical and spiritual significance.

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Local tips

  • Visit during the annual festival on May 7th for a vibrant celebration.
  • Explore the nearby village of Argyroupoli for traditional Cretan tavernas and local crafts.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to the ancient Roman ruins and springs in Argyroupoli.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Rethymno, take a local bus towards Argyroupoli. Buses depart regularly from Rethymno's central bus station. Once in Argyroupoli, the church is a short walk from the village center. A single bus fare from Rethymno to Argyroupoli typically costs around €3-€5.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Rethymno. A taxi ride to the Church of the Five Virgins in Lappei (Argyroupoli) will take approximately 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay around €25-€40 for the trip. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

  • Walking

    From the center of Argyroupoli, the Church of the Five Virgins is accessible by foot. Follow the signs leading towards the ancient Roman cemetery and the church. The walk is relatively short, taking about 10-15 minutes, and offers scenic views of the surrounding landscape. There are no specific costs associated with walking.

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Discover more about Church of the five virgins

The Church of the Five Virgins, located in Lappei (Argyroupoli) near Rethymno, Crete, is a revered site with a rich history and deep spiritual significance. Dedicated to the five holy virgins—Thekla, Mariamna, Martha, Maria, and Ennatha—the church stands on the grounds of an ancient Greco-Roman cemetery, blending pagan and Christian traditions. According to local tradition, these virgins sought refuge in hewn tombs within the ancient cemetery around 330 A.D.. They lived, died, and were buried there, gaining reputations for their piety and attracting pilgrims seeking blessings. The church was erected in their memory, becoming a focal point of worship and reflection. Archaeological findings suggest the site was a pagan family tomb during the Greco-Roman period, later repurposed as a pilgrimage site for the five Christian martyrs. The church itself is constructed into the soft sandstone rocks of the ancient Roman burial ground, which was likely used for funerals from 50 BC to the end of the first century AD. The architecture and setting create a unique atmosphere, inviting visitors to contemplate the layers of history and faith. The Holy Five Virgins are commemorated on September 26 and June 9, though their church in Crete celebrates them on May 7. The church is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the enduring faith and traditions of the local community.

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