Agia Triada Monastery

The Monastery of Agia Triada Tzagaroli, also known as the Monastery of the Holy Trinity, is an amazing example of Venetian architecture and an important religious site located on the Akrotiri peninsula. The monastery, founded in the early 17th century by two Venetian brothers, Jeremias and Lorenzo Tzagaroli, has a rich history linked to the cultural and religious heritage of the island. Surrounded by olive groves, it has been a place of worship, pilgrimage and cultural significance for centuries.

monastery buildings

In order to explore the vast complex with all its buildings, you first need to be dressed appropriately. If your trousers are too short, you will be given a scarf to tie around your legs and than, nothing is stopping you from entering. As soon as you are in the courtyard, you will be surprised by the abundance of greenery, flowers and palm trees.

Courtyard

History of the monastery

The construction of the monastery began in 1611 and was completed in 1634. During the Cretan War (1645-1669) it played a key role and served as a centre of resistance against the Ottoman Turks. Throughout its history, Agia Triada has been an important religious, educational and cultural centre, housing valuable manuscripts and religious artefacts.

collection of writings and books in the museum

The monastery complex consists of several buildings arranged around a central courtyard, including the main church, chapels, living quarters for the monks and a library. The focal point of the complex is the imposing church of the Agia Triada (Holy Trinity), which is decorated with magnificent marble carvings, elaborate iconography and a majestic bell tower. However, only the church, the museum and the courtyard are accessible.

inside of the church

The museum houses a remarkable collection of religious artefacts, including ancient manuscripts, icons, vestments and liturgical objects, which provides a glimpse into the spiritual and artistic traditions of the Orthodox Church.

Homemade olive oil

In addition to its religious significance, the Agia Triada Tzagaroli Monastery is also known for its agricultural activities, especially the production of olive oil. The monastery owns extensive olive groves and vineyards where the monks cultivate the land using traditional methods handed down from generation to generation. During your visit, you can taste the monastery's famous olive oil, which is made from the best Cretan olives, and learn about the ancient art of olive cultivation.

How to get here

Agia Triada Tzagaroli Monastery is a 20-minute drive north of Chania, a short drive from the airport. Some local agencies organise bus tours from Chania. You can also connect your visit with the nearby Stavros beach. You can get to Stavros by bus, but you would need to take a taxi to the monastery.

The complex has a large parking lot, where there is also a small shop and a well. Since the kids were already exhausted after the whole day, they decided to stay outside with the cats and Martin and me were able to enjoy the treasures the monastery has to offer. I was mesmerized by the old manuscripts, Martin by the decoration of the church.

bell tower