All Products Shore Excursions Lassithi Plateau & Kera Monastery

Lassithi Plateau & Kera Monastery

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Heraklion, Crete, Greece
Moderate Activity Level
No Minimum Age
4.75 hours
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Relax on a trip to the magnificent Crete's countryside, visiting the Monastery of Kera and enjoying some of the famous Cretan specialties. Drive into the interior of the island, ascending to a level of 3000 feet. Pass through fertile countryside and many picturesque villages arriving an hour later at the Plateau known as Lassithi, one of the few areas in the Mediterranean with permanent inhabitants at an altitude of over 2600 feet. 


Stop on this magnificent mountain route at the historic Monastery of Kera, adorned with 14th century wall paintings. It is believed that the establishment of the monastery is connected with the miraculous icon of Virgin Mary, after which it takes its name. According to the tradition during the iconoclastic era, this icon was moved to Constantinople but returned back miraculously. During the Venetian era the icon was stolen from a wine merchant and taken to Rome, where it is still stored today.

In 1735 the icon was miraculously replaced by another one. Typical are the old frescoes of the 14th century quite damaged over time, today Kera serves as a nunnery. Continue through quaint villages to the plateau of Lassithi, enjoying its breathtaking views. Finally enjoy some local specialties in Seli area.


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Notes


  • Please cover shoulders and knees when entering the Monastery.
  • Comfortable shoes recommended due to cobblestones and uneven ground. 
  • There are winding roads.