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Monastery of Agios Georgios, Karydi: A Cretan Sanctuary

Discover the serene Monastery of Agios Georgios in Karydi, Crete, featuring a historic olive mill with unique architecture and tranquil surroundings.

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The Monastery of Agios Georgios in Karydi, near Vamos, Crete, is a serene religious destination known for its historical significance and unique architecture. The monastery's trademark is its old olive oil factory with twelve stone arches, a testament to the region's agricultural history.

A brief summary to Monastery Agios Georgios, Karydi - the ancient olive mill with the 12 arches

Local tips

  • Wear comfortable shoes for walking around the monastery grounds.
  • Visit during the morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Check the opening hours before visiting, as they may vary.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Chania, take the bus towards Kissamos or Platanias and ask the driver to stop at Krionerida. The journey takes approximately 30-40 minutes. From Krionerida, walk east towards the road leading up the hill, following signs for Monastery Agios Georgios. Bus fare is approximately €3-€5.

  • Taxi

    Take a taxi from anywhere in Chania to 'Monastery Agios Georgios in Krionerida'. The ride takes about 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic. A taxi ride will cost approximately €25-€35.

  • Walking

    From Vamos, the monastery is approximately a 2km walk. Head east from Vamos, following local roads and signs to the Monastery of Agios Georgios.

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Discover more about Monastery Agios Georgios, Karydi - the ancient olive mill with the 12 arches

Nestled in the Apokoronas province of Crete, about 2km east of Vamos village, lies the Monastery of Agios Georgios in Karydi. Founded around 1600 AD, the monastery stands as a testament to the island's rich history and cultural heritage. The site was originally a settlement and fiefdom controlled by a Venetian nobleman. During the Turkish occupation of Crete, the monastery faced significant challenges. Locals were forced to choose between converting to Islam or abandoning their homes. The monastery's church was nearly converted into a mosque, but the local priest granted the church to the Agia Triada Tzagarolon Monastery to avoid exhaustive taxes. The monks from Agia Triada then constructed a new, larger church between 1850 and 1880. The monastery's olive oil factory, completed in 1863, is particularly impressive, featuring twelve stone arches. This factory, with its four olive mills, was a unique example of large-scale oil production in Crete. Although the roof has collapsed, the bases of the mills remain. The monastery produced up to 25,000 kg of olive oil. After being abandoned for many years, the monastery was restored in 1996 and now operates normally. Today, visitors can explore the tranquil grounds, admire the architecture, and learn about the monastery's history.

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