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Church · Heraclião, Creta
Catedral de Agios Minas
The cathedral of Heraclião, dedicated to São Menas, the city’s patron, built between 1862 and 1895 and one of the largest in Greece, next to the older church of Agios Minas from 1735.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
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About Catedral de Agios Minas
The cathedral of Agios Minas is the seat of the Archbishop of Crete and one of the largest churches in Greece, with 1,350 square metres of interior area. The foundation stone was laid in 1862, still in the Ottoman period; construction stopped during the 1866 revolt, resumed in 1883 and was completed in 1895. It is dedicated to São Menas (Agios Minas), a Roman soldier martyred in Egypt, whom the Cretans consider the protector of the city.
The interior, in the shape of a cross with a central dome, is covered in paintings and has an ornate iconostasis. The façade, with two towers, faces a wide square where processions are held on the saint’s day, 11 November, a holiday in Heraclião.
Next to it is the small church of Agios Minas, from 1735, which locals call the little Agios Minas: it served as the city’s cathedral during the Ottoman occupation and houses older icons. In the same square is the church of Agia Ekaterini, from the 16th century, which houses a museum of Cretan religious art, with icons of the so-called Cretan school, from which El Greco emerged.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
20 to 40 minutes for the two churches; longer if you visit the museum of Agia Ekaterini.
Best time
In the morning, when sunlight enters through the dome windows, or during Sunday masses to see the church in use. On 11 November the square is filled by the saint’s festival.
How to get there
It is on praça Agia Ekaterini, about a 7-minute walk southwest of the praça dos Leões, via rua 1821 or rua Agiou Mina.
Tip
Also go into the small church beside it, often overlooked by visitors. To enter, shoulders and knees must be covered.
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Catedral de Agios Minas
Is Agios Minas the cathedral of Heraclião?
Yes. It is the seat of the Archbishop of Crete and the city's main church, completed in 1895.
Who was Saint Menas?
A Roman soldier of Egyptian origin, martyred in the 3rd century. He is the patron saint of Heraclião, celebrated on November 11, a holiday in the city.
What is the church of Agia Ekaterini next door?
A 16th-century church that serves as a museum of religious art, with icons of the Cretan school. Check opening times before you go.