Catholico Monastery

The Catholic Monastery dates from the fifth century. It was the first monk settlement in the area. It was not until the 13th century that it became the centre of the spiritual and cultural life of Crete. It is located 20 kilometers from Chania on the edge of Cape Akrotiri. The monastery is housed in a rock. A 50-meter stone bridge leads to it. At the entrance there is a large gate and a bell tower. Along the rock there are a viaduct with arches and monastic cells. They're very small. This place is also known for the Cave of St. John, which is located nearby. This is the main relic, inside there is a stone bed. Many pilgrims call it healing. Having been near him, a person has energy and strength. Also in the cave there is a reservoir of water, which is considered sacred. The cave is not illuminated, has a length of 150 meters. Here is also the tomb of John. The monastery is not residential. The monks of a nearby monastery support him.

You can get from the monastery of Guverneto on a narrow path through the Awlaki gorge.