Location
Preveli Monastery
Preveli, Rethymno
Preveli Monastery – Preveli, Rethymno
Preveli Monastery, located on the southern coast of Crete near Rethymno, is an important historical and religious site. It consists of two complexes: the abandoned Lower Monastery (Kato Moni) and the active Upper Monastery (Piso Moni), dedicated to Saint John the Theologian. Its origins date back to the 10th–11th century, while the present structure was built in 1594. During the Ottoman occupation and World War II, the monastery served as a refuge for rebels and Allied soldiers, which led to its destruction by German forces. Today, the monastery attracts visitors not only for its history but also for its picturesque location overlooking the Libyan Sea and the nearby Preveli Beach, known for its unique palm forest.
Description
Preveli Monastery (Μονή Πρέβελη), picturesquely located on the southern coast of Crete near the mouth of the Megalopotamos River and Preveli Beach, is one of the island’s most important spiritual and historical centers. Its origins likely date back to the 10th–11th century, but the main Upper Monastery complex, dedicated to Saint John the Theologian, took shape in the 16th–17th centuries during Venetian rule. Alongside it stands the now-abandoned Lower Monastery (Kato Moni), dedicated to Saint Anthony.
For centuries Preveli played a pivotal role in the religious and political life of the region. During the uprisings against the Ottomans it served as a refuge for rebels and as an organizational hub of resistance. Similarly, during World War II the monks, risking their lives, aided Allied soldiers hiding after the Battle of Crete — particularly Australians and New Zealanders (ANZAC) — helping them escape by boat across the Libyan Sea.
One of those rescued was the Australian soldier Geoffrey Edwards who, deeply moved by the hospitality and courage of the Preveli monks, later inspired the naming of a new settlement in Western Australia as “Prevely.” A Greek-style church was built there as a tribute to the monastery and as an expression of gratitude for saving his life.
The monastery remains active and houses a museum with icons, manuscripts, and relics. Its terraces offer views of the Libyan Sea, and the nearby Preveli Beach — with its palm grove and lagoon — is one of the most visited locations on Crete’s southern coast.
Location
Preveli, Rethymno
Coordinates: 35.15754, 24.45634