The beauty of hiring a car when you are on holiday, is that you can explore places ‘off the beaten track’. Stefanos, who owned the B ‘n B we stayed in on the Greek island of Crete (in 2018), gave us great recommendations. He suggested we visit the Eastern Orthodox Church of Panagia Kera in the village of Krista. It wasn’t too far from where we were staying.
This remarkable Cretan Byzantine church is huddled in the Dikte Mountains. It really is a wonderful little treasure.
How Old?
The age of the church is not known, but is evident in the structure as well as the frescoes. Even for an untrained historic ‘eye’, the Byzantine art showed it age with vivid colours and clarity. It is believed that the oldest part of the church is probably 13th century. But the only other information available is that a local family renovated the church in the early 1700s. Thus, some of the art is not original.
Inside the Church
My biblical knowledge is not very good, but the interior of the church was incredibly beautiful in its simplicity. The frescoes on the dome and the walls told of some of the most important stories from the bible. These are mostly form the New Testament including the Second Coming and Judgement Day. But the central theme is of the Virgin Mary. She is also is in the name of the church. ‘Panagia’ is one of the names given to the Virgin Mary in the Eastern Orthodox Church. And there are dedications inside the church.
I am acutely aware of how a place makes me feel, and although I am not religious, I am deeply spiritual, and sadly this little church felt ‘empty’. It didn’t move me spiritually, but I am always touched by the history, the artistry, the passion and the love that oozes from a religious site, and for this reason, the Church of Panagia Kera is a delight to visit, even if you are not a big church fan.
As one of the finest-preserved Byzantine-era frescoes in Crete, the island is understandably proud of this little church.
Being able to share these amazing places, is why I blog
