Dormition in Meronas
The Church of Dormition of Theotokos is a three- isled Church is partly built in the 14th c. Inside it, is one of the most beautiful Panagias I have ever layed eyes on. This portable icon of Panagia Hodegetria is probably a dedication of the Kallergis family. Kallergis family -one of the mightiest and wealthiest noble Greek families or the period- was the owner (ktetor) of the Church. It’s coat of arms is incorporated in the outside as well in the interior of the Church.
The wall paintings of the Dormition in Meronas are maybe some most interesting of the era in Crete.- The high quality of the paintings is attributed to craftsmen that were brought from Constantinople, by the same family for the wall paintings of the temple that contain scenes from the life of Christ, the Life of St George and the Akathist Hymn.
Meronas village, built on a green peak, overlooking the valley of Amari and the slopes of Psiloritis totally worths a visit Apart from the Church of Dormition the Village is also home to many more venetian era churches, ruins of castles, good vistas and excellent local food in small local tavwernas.
Opening Hours:
The Church of Dormition is kept open (at least in the summer) every day from 10.30-3:00. This is made posible throught the work of volunteers of the Village and the Priest of the Parish, Father Emm. Vamiedakis
How to Get There:
There are several alternative roots to get you there but the best, to my opinion (starting from the capital, Heraklion), is through Tybaki and the coastal Agia Galini
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