The province of Apokoronas stretches from the foothills of the White Mountains (Lefka Ori) to the northern coast of the island. Dynamic water routes form a region rich in vegetation of various kinds. Apokoronas has preserved the traditional character of its villages that constitute a living core of modern rural life. The whole history of its countryside, along with the history of Christian worship, is reflected in its churches that will be the focus of your tour. You will encounter exceptional examples of art and architecture situated in unique natural beauty.
Your first stop will be a small Byzantine church in the middle of nowhere, almost caped by trees and plants around. It is located in a landscape of exceptional beauty, surrounded by vineyards and a rare Cretan oak. This type of the church is a typical example of pure Byzantine architecture and testifies to the radiation of the tradition of Constantinople even into the distant corners of the empire. You will also find traces of early worship in another church in a nearby village. Although the standing building dates back to the 15th century, the recent excavations inside indicate that worship began in the 8th century. See the excavation inside the church and discuss its relations with the great monasteries of Greece and the monastic tradition that was formed in the area.
A symbol of the Cretan effort in their struggle against the Venetians is a glorious church at the foothills of the White Mountains. Its founder is the Emperor of Nicaea, John Vatatzis, who hastened to prevent the conqueror of the island. The exceptional frescoes within date back to the 13th century and represents a high quality example of painting. The tour will be completed in the exceptional beauty of a hidden church in one of the most charming villages of Apokoronas. Built in the 13th century, the church is a modern pilgrimage demonstrating that faith in this place is an ongoing feeling. Then, enjoy traditional local cuisine at a local kafeneion (tapas taverna) located in the unique square of a typical Cretan village, where you will find an expression of daily local life as the last satisfaction for your senses on this tour.
