An Unforgettable Visit to Toplou Monastery in Lasithi, Crete

The History of Toplou Monastery

Like many other monasteries in Crete, Toplou has heavily impacted the island’s history. It all started in the 14th century. What began as a small church built by locals quickly transformed into a monk’s sanctuary within two centuries.

Soon, Toplou was the largest and most impressive castle monastery in Eastern Crete. The monastery’s exterior and glory came hand in hand with quality work from its monks.

Byzantine hagiography and icons that survived until today in the monastery show how the educated monks of Toplou helped upgrade the level of Crete during the Renaissance period. 

Toplou under Venetian and Ottoman Rules

After a devastating earthquake in 1612, the Venetians helped rebuild the monastery to benefit from its strategic position in east Crete.

However, it still followed the destiny of the rest of Crete and fell into the hands of the Ottomans.

Although you might expect a Christian monastery to decline in importance when another nation takes control of the land, the opposite happened for Toplu.

Through the 267 years, 7 months, and 7 days of violent Turkish occupation that the Cretans faced, the monastery was a source of life, health, and comfort.

Through providing food and protection to countless victims of the violence, the monks of that period were thankfully there to support the hurting. 

During those turbulent times, fate had it that the monastery would give up its last name of Akrotiriani for its current one.

Although how the transition exactly happened remains unknown, locals believe that Toplou comes from a Turkish word.

Top means Metal Ball and refers to the monastery’s cannon used for defense purposes. I guess that shows Turks had a hard time capturing the castle.

Toplou under German Rule

As you can imagine, during the German occupation of the island, the monastery was once again a vital shelter for resistance fighters.

The monks even possessed a radio to communicate with allied forces in Egypt. The capture of this radio led to the infamous torture and execution of the monastery’s abbot.

Despite recent events, the monastery continued to support the fight against Germans. Thankfully, the monks returned to their spiritual work, which has continued until today.  

Plan the Visit: What to See in Toplou Monastery, Lasithi

These are the things you should check out when visiting Moni Toplou:

The Exterior

Marked with greatness, Toplou is known as the only surviving monastery within the Sitia area, as most others were destroyed by wars or pirate raids.

You could easily attribute this success to its fortified 10-meter-high walls, which will impress you from afar.

The Interior

The monastery features three floors, 40 rooms, and a 33-meter-high bell tower.

To pique your curiosity, it has been said to have 100 doors; however, only 99 have been found. So if you feel lucky, keep an eye out for the lost ones!

The Entrance

The main entrance is on the west side of the fort; it has a sturdy door that rolls open on large wheels.

If you pay close attention, you can even notice the hole from where the defenders would throw stones or boiling liquids at unwelcome visitors. Hopefully, you won’t have to experience any of that!

The Inner Courts

Once you go through the door, you will embrace a view of a well-maintained establishment.

You will especially love the two beautiful inner courts and the ancient well, which played an essential role during sieges, keeping the water flowing on the premises.

The Church

After you roam through the courtyard, prepare to enter the main temple. Once inside, you cannot but admire the murals and frescoes decorating the walls. There’s also a unique silver icon of the virgin near the altar.

Don’t forget to gaze at the imposing bell tower and belfry, two rare examples of Renaissance architecture in the area.

The Icons

If there is one element you should pay the most attention to, it is the monastery’s famous icon collection. They date as far back as the 15th century and demonstrate the monks’ impressive artistic talent.

The Museum

Although some of these icons are in the temple, you will find most of them in the monastery’s museum.

And if that’s not enough, the collection includes other essential finds, such as crosses, bibles, seals, holy robes, paintings, and objects monks used to defend against Germans during WWII, including weapons, helmets, and a radio! 

Moni Toplou: The Winery

If you decide to visit in the summertime, then you will be lucky as the wine-tasting facilities are open for business!

And this is different from your average Cretan wine, too – with a unique climate known only to the Lasithi region, you will not find this variety of wine, known as Assyrtiko, anywhere else on the island.

Here, you will have the chance to sample Toplou Monastery wine, raki, and top-of-the-line olive oil, all produced within walking distance of where you will take your first sip.

Tips to Visit the Holy Monastery of Toplou

Keep these details at hand and bookmark the page to prepare for a visit:

How to Get to Toplou Monastery

Due to its remote location, Toplou Monastery might be challenging to reach. The main road goes through Sitia, which is 10 kilometers west.

However, the nearest central city hub is Palekastro, 6 kilometers south. In any case, you will need to rent a car since there is no bus service in the area. Follow the Wines of Crete signs and get to Toplou Crete.

Opening Hours and Entrance Fee

Thankfully, the monastery of Toplou is open all year round from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and then again from 2 p.m. to 6 p.m. Note, however, that the museum is closed on Sundays.

Regarding costs, the ticket fare comes to only €4, but prepare to spend more if you’re after the famous Toplou Monastery olive oil and wine offerings.

The Restaurant

Although you wouldn’t expect it from monasteries in Lasithi or greater Crete, Toplou is home to a reputable restaurant, Kamaroto.

This hidden gem offers delicious dishes in elevated outdoor seating areas with incredible panoramic views.

Look closely, and you can admire the biological vineyard and olive tree cultivations from afar, not to mention the first wind farms in Crete.

Essential Things to Know Before the Visit

Since you are visiting a spiritual establishment, remember to dress appropriately and cover your shoulders. Photography is not allowed in the museum and the church, but you can still take pictures of the courtyard and outside areas.

Finally, if you want to use the toilet, prefer the one in the tavern over the main one.

What to Do Near Toplou Monastery

It goes without saying that since you’re in Toplou, you have to visit Bai Beach in the east. Also known as Vai Palm Beach, the location will quickly captivate you with its exotic appeal.

And if you want some adventure, try walking the nearby Gorge of Toplou; it’s challenging but worth every bit of the effort.

Another interesting place a relatively short drive from the monastery is Sitia, Crete’s easternmost port city. There, you can discover the magnificent archaeological museum and its impressive Venetian fortress.

If you enjoy hiking and history, you can also combine a visit to the Gorge of the Dead and the Minoan Palace of Kato Zakros

Overall, visiting the Toplou Monastery can be a delightful experience. You will love its quiet setting, cute restaurant, and historical artifacts.

Often, you find yourself transported back in time, and I am sure it will be an experience you will never forget! So, if you plan on visiting, here’s to amazing travels, scenic views, and incredible times. 

Accommodation Near Toplou

Although the immediate area surrounding Toplou is isolated and there are no places to stay, it’s a good idea to book a stay either in Sitia or the small village of Kato Zakros to explore the archaeological site and the gorge and enjoy the solitary beach.

These are some of the places I recommend:

• Sea View Apartment: Situated just 1 km from Analoukas Beach, this apartment features beachfront accommodation with a private beach area and a garden. The spacious apartment with a terrace has 3 bedrooms, a living room, an equipped kitchen with an oven and a microwave, a fireplace, and 2 bathrooms. Vai Palm Forest is 14 km from the apartment.
  Click here for more information and the latest prices.

• Pelegrines V: Situated in Palekastro, the house features accommodation with free private parking and mountain or garden views. It is 10 km from Vai Palm Forest. It has 1 bedroom, a living room, and an equipped kitchen with an oven and a fridge. The property also has an outdoor dining area.
  Click here for more information and the latest prices.

• Kostantin Dionysos: Located in Sitia, close to Analoukas Beach and 14 km from Vai Palm Forest, this place offers access to a garden and a balcony, free private parking, and free WiFi. Outdoor dining is also possible at the apartment. The apartment has 1 bedroom, a living room, a kitchen with an oven and a microwave, a seating area, and a fireplace.
  Click here for more information and the latest prices.

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