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Vrontisiou Monastery Honors Apostle Thomas with Solemn Divine Liturgy

Sunday, 19 April 2026/CretaOne/1 
A solemn Divine Liturgy was celebrated at the Monastery of Vrontisiou, near the village of Zaros in the Heraklion regional unit, marking the feast day of the Apostle Thomas. The service was presided over by Metropolitan Ioakim and drew local faithful in a reverent atmosphere. The Monastery of Vrontisiou is one of Crete's most significant Byzantine monasteries, dating to the 14th century and renowned for its carved Venetian fountain and historical frescoes. It sits on the northern slopes of the Psiloritis mountain range, roughly 45 kilometers southwest of Heraklion. Visitors interested in Orthodox religious heritage and Byzantine architecture can access the monastery by car via Zaros. The site is generally open to respectful visitors outside of liturgical services. Modest dress covering shoulders and knees is required for entry.