Vasilies: Cave Church and Annual Festivals

Vasilies: Cave Church and Annual Festivals

On the outskirts of Vasilies, on the northern foothills of Mount Juktas, lies the cave church of Saint Anthony, built in the form of a catacomb. It is a worthwhile place to visit, combining religious significance with a distinctive architectural form. Those interested in religious sites will find a specific cultural highlight in Vasilies.

Saint Anthony connects the church with the local festival calendar. Every year, on the eve of January 17 and on the feast day itself, the patron saint’s day, the cultural association holds a two-day festival. Another annual event is the traditional Klidonas festival, held by the cultural association on June 24. The two celebrations have different emphases throughout the year: January focuses on the patron saint, while June is devoted to the Klidonas festival. If you would like to plan your trip around one of these traditions, check the specific date for your chosen year.

Heraklion as a Wider Destination

In the wider destination of Heraklion, the museums offer different cultural perspectives. The Historical Museum of Crete displays two paintings by El Greco, dating from 1569 and 1570—the artist’s only works on Crete. A separate collection at the museum includes personal belongings and manuscripts of the Cretan writer Nikos Kazantzakis. The Heraklion Archaeological Museum displays representative examples of Cretan prehistory, early history and history, from the Neolithic period to Roman times. Thus, in the wider Heraklion area, art and literature sit alongside a broad archaeological timeline.

The buildings also highlight different historical periods. Koules was built by the Venetians to protect the pier and harbor; the Loggia is a Venetian building dating from the 16th century. The Basilica of San Marco houses the municipal art gallery, art exhibitions and exhibitions of crafts. As the exhibition program may change, check what is currently on display before visiting. Agios Minas is dedicated to the patron saint of Heraklion and is one of the largest churches in Greece. Built in 1555, the Basilica of Agia Ekaterini was home in the 16th and 17th centuries to a renowned school for Renaissance painters and writers.

City and Countryside in Heraklion

The wider destination of Heraklion also offers visitors routes through the urban area. Visitors can walk along the city walls of Heraklion and enjoy views over the city. The pedestrianized 25 August Street runs between the Old Port of Heraklion and Lion Square. As access conditions may change, check the current situation before visiting.

The rural area of the Municipality of Heraklion offers routes for hiking, cycling and driving. There are also opportunities for climbing and caving, as well as forest trails. The landscape includes vineyards and olive groves; the villages preserve features of Cretan architecture and their own distinct historical heritage. Traditional eateries are also part of this rural setting, serving dishes prepared with fresh local produce. Offerings at individual eateries may change.

Discover more destinations: Sivas, Astrakoi, Kato Kalesia, Matala, Gazi, Finikia, Semeli, Vathianos Kampos

Go to the wider travel overview: Heraklion.