Gouverneto Monastery & Katholiko
Μονή Γουβερνέτου
A fortress-like monastery at the tip of the Akrotiri Peninsula. Stone steps lead down from here into the gorge, to a cave chapel and the abandoned ruins of Katholiko Monastery.
Gouverneto Monastery was built in the 16th century. With its square, fortress-like form, it is one of Crete's oldest monasteries. Shoulders and knees must be covered to enter, and entry costs about 3 euros. From beside the monastery, a 30-minute walk downhill reaches the Bear Cave (Arkoudospilios) and the ruins of Katholiko Monastery built into the cliff face. Further down, there is a small bay for swimming. The round trip takes about 1.5 to 2 hours, and the steps are steep, so wear trainers. The monastery closes at midday, and its opening hours often change, so check before you go.
Opening hours
About 09:00-12:00 and 17:00-19:00 (often changes; may close Fridays)
Nearby sights
- Agia Triada Tzagarolon Monastery
- Stavros Beach
- Seitan Limania
- Marathi Beach
- Venizelos Graves
- Ancient Aptera
- Archaeological Museum of Chania
- Chania Old Venetian Harbour