The Gouverneto Monastery (also known as Gderneto Monastery) is one of the oldest monasteries in Crete, located 19 km east of Chania on the northern side of the Akrotiri Peninsula. It lies near the famous Agia Triada Tzagarolon Monastery and can be reached via a signposted road from Agia Triada.

A Monastery with Fortress Architecture

Perched at an altitude of 260 meters, Gouverneto Monastery overlooks the entrance to Avlaki Gorge. The monastery is fortress-like in design, featuring four bastioned towers at its corners for protection. Historical records suggest that Gouverneto was built before 1537, as evidenced by an inscription at its entrance. It is believed that hermits and monks from the Katholiko Monastery, located by the sea, established Gouverneto to escape pirate raids. Some researchers speculate that it was built on the site of an ancient temple.

Architecture and Religious Significance

The central church of the monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, also known as "Kyria ton Agelon" (Lady of the Angels Monastery). The church has a cruciform design with a dome, and its entrance is decorated with carved reliefs of mythical creatures. Construction began during the Venetian era, but due to the Turkish invasion of Crete, it took 2.5 centuries to complete, as the Ottomans forbade the building of Christian churches.

Surrounding the central courtyard, you will find the monk cells (50 in total, spread over two floors), a dining hall, a small museum, and two chapels dedicated to the Agii Deka (Ten Saints) and Saint John the Hermit.

Saint John the Hermit and the Avlaki Gorge Trail

Saint John the Hermit, believed to be the founder of the monastery, once lived in a cave within the Avlaki Gorge, adjacent to Gouverneto. If you're up for an adventure, you can hike through the gorge by following a paved stone trail that leads to the sea.

• 20 minutes into the descent, you will reach the Arkoudospilio Cave, named after its bear-shaped rock formation.

• Continuing further, you will come across the ruins of Katholiko Monastery and the cavernous church of Saint John, where the saint lived.

• After another 10 minutes, the gorge ends in a narrow rocky fjord with crystal-clear green waters—a breathtaking sight.

Visitor Information

Entry fee: 2,5 euros

Opening Hours:

• Monday, Tuesday, Thursday: 9:00 – 12:00 & 17:00 – 19:00

• Weekends: 9:00 – 11:00 & 17:00 – 20:00

Park here: https://maps.app.goo.gl/yqMc1g65a8pQ8iiy7

Dress Code:
Be modestly dressed—shorts, swimwear, and revealing clothing are not permitted.