tourism

Saint Paisios Orthodox Church Inaugurated in Western Crete

Friday, 3 July 2026/Source: CretaOne/1 min read

A new Orthodox church dedicated to Saint Paisios the Athonite was inaugurated in Agrokipio, in the Chania regional unit of western Crete. The event took place over two days, Saturday the 11th and Sunday, and included a religious festival (panigiri) marking the occasion. Saint Paisios, a widely venerated 20th-century monk of Mount Athos, was officially recognized as a saint by the Orthodox Church in 2015 and holds deep significance for Greek Orthodox communities across Greece and Cyprus. For visitors in the Chania area, events like this offer a rare opportunity to witness authentic Cretan Orthodox tradition, including liturgical services, local music, and communal gatherings. Religious festivals in Crete are typically open to respectful visitors. Modest dress (covered shoulders and knees) is required when entering Orthodox churches.

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