Selinari Monastery St George
A serene 16th-century monastery dedicated to St. George, patron saint of travelers, offering a peaceful stop with a miraculous icon.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Avoid tourist bus crowds
Selinari Monastery St George
Best Time
Avoid tourist bus crowds
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A serene 16th-century monastery dedicated to St. George, patron saint of travelers, offering a peaceful stop with a miraculous icon.
"A peaceful little church dedicated to Archangel Michael. Built with distinctive red brick, its architecture reflects the traditional style of Crete and blends beautifully into the surrounding landscape. "
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
Conveniently located right off the main road, perfect for a quick leg stretch.
🕯️ Light a Candle
Many visitors stop to light a candle and pay respects to St. George.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Miraculous Icon of St. George
Chapel
Discover the revered icon of St. George, patron saint of travelers, housed in a 16th-century chapel.
Tranquil Hillside Setting
Monastery grounds
Enjoy the peaceful atmosphere and scenic views from this monastery perched on a hillside overlooking the sea.
Traditional Cretan Architecture
Monastery complex
Admire the beautiful architecture of the monastery, blending traditional Cretan style with its natural surroundings.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Peaceful Stopover
Timing Your Visit
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
Conveniently located right off the main road, perfect for a quick leg stretch.
🕯️ Light a Candle
Many visitors stop to light a candle and pay respects to St. George.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the serene beauty of the monastery and its surroundings.
🛍️ Souvenir Shop
Browse the souvenir shop for memorabilia and local crafts.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Easy Roadside Stop
Conveniently located right off the main road, perfect for a quick leg stretch.
🕯️ Light a Candle
Many visitors stop to light a candle and pay respects to St. George.
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture the serene beauty of the monastery and its surroundings.
🛍️ Souvenir Shop
Browse the souvenir shop for memorabilia and local crafts.
🦅 Eagles of St. George
Keep an eye out for the majestic Cretan eagles that sometimes circle the monastery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors find the Monastery of St. George Selinari to be a peaceful and convenient stopover with a serene atmosphere and a significant religious icon. While some note it's a small site and can be busy with tour groups, its roadside location and spiritual significance make it a worthwhile brief visit for many.
"Looking from outside it’s nice but inside its just a small chapel u can visit, then a museum (there is a nice monk watching inside) and that’s it. Also a shop for souvenirs then it finishes. If u’re passing by and want a stop to relax maybe its good but its not worth to drive all the way here. The high way is under construction so it’s kinda dangerous when u wanna return."
Linh Nguyen
"On the recommendation of our Airbnb host, we drove up to this quiet hillside and discovered a peaceful little church dedicated to Archangel Michael. Built with distinctive red brick, its architecture reflects the traditional style of Crete and blends beautifully into the surrounding landscape. A serene and authentic place, far from the crowds."
Vera Bin Zheng
"Nice to visit, we were there at 16:50 and the monastery was closed. There is a souvenir shop where you can get memorabilia."
Peter Paul van Doorn
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The monastery is conveniently located right off the main road between Heraklion and Agios Nikolaos, making it an easy stop for travelers.
While it's a common stop for tourist buses, direct public transport options might be limited. Renting a car or joining a tour is recommended for easy access.
Yes, there is typically parking available for visitors, especially for those arriving by car or tour bus.
The monastery is situated along the main E75 highway on Crete. If you're coming from Heraklion, it will be on your right as you head towards Agios Nikolaos.
Some visitors have noted that the highway can be under construction, which might affect the return journey. It's advisable to check local traffic conditions.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the monastery grounds and the chapel is generally free. However, specific areas or museums might have separate admission policies.
Opening hours can vary, and some visitors have reported the monastery being closed in the late afternoon. It's best to check in advance or arrive earlier in the day.
While the main chapel is accessible, the museum area might have a small fee or be managed by a monk.
Religious sites often have special hours or services on Sundays and holidays. It's recommended to confirm the schedule for these days.
Visitors should be mindful of the monastery's operating hours, especially in the late afternoon, to avoid finding it closed.
🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience
Inside, you'll find a small but impressive chapel with religious artwork, a museum, and a souvenir shop. Many find the atmosphere peaceful.
Yes, its roadside location makes it ideal for a brief stop to stretch your legs, light a candle, or admire the surroundings.
The monastery is dedicated to St. George, a revered martyr and the patron saint of travelers, making it a significant pilgrimage site for many.
Yes, facilities like restrooms are available, though they can get busy when tourist buses are present.
Photography rules can vary. It's generally respectful to ask permission before taking photos of religious icons or inside sacred spaces.
📸 📸 Photography
The hillside setting offers beautiful views of the monastery against the sea and landscape. The chapel's interior, if permitted, can also be photogenic. +1
Look out for the traditional Cretan architecture, religious artwork, and potentially the large Cretan eagles that sometimes circle overhead.
Early morning or late afternoon light can offer softer, more dramatic lighting for your photographs.
While sightings are not guaranteed, if you are lucky enough to see the eagles, capturing them can be a unique photographic opportunity.
Always be respectful of the religious nature of the site. Avoid intrusive photography, especially during services or inside the chapel.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Road Trippers & Day-Trippers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
History and Significance
Legend has it that a monk heard the voice of Saint George, inspiring the construction of the first church on this site.
Visitor Experience and Amenities
It's important to note that the monastery can be a popular stop for organized tours, which may lead to crowds, especially at the cafe and restrooms.
Social
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