Agia Irini Convent, Agia Eirini

Another historic monastery, they even have an ancient cave where centuries ago the first monks used to live there. Nuns very helpful. Nice view too.

A beautiful little monastery cared for by a small number of dedicated nuns… set high up in the hills of the interior we only came across this on the bus tour out of Reythmno… well with a visit and a gift shop on site too… The chapel ceiling was hand painted by the Sisters not unlike the Sistine chapel frescos… no photographs permitted which is such a shame fir such wonderful art work.

We came across this monastery high up above the road on a hike from Rethimnon to Chromonastiri and Myli Gorge. Reading the other reviews afterwards we were sad we didn’t take a detour to take a look. Our guide book didn’t make much of it but looks like it is worth going to investigate.

First when we arrived there, everything was closed. But we saw a paper saying that we have to ring and wait So a nun came for us and told us the history of the monastery, she told us that they have a piece of St Irene's hand and a miracle icon. Also she took us to the shop where they have many beautiful things : from icons to creams and olive oil, everything produced there.

We took a walk up the hill from Rethymno it takes about 1 hour through the olive trees orchard and it was magical walk. This place is full of peace, with the beautiful views and you can buy some nice products by the local nuns.