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The monastery was founded during the last phase of the Venetian rule in Crete, by the end of the 16th century. Its original founder (ktetor) was Ioannis Chartofilakas, an eminent scholar and important figure of the Chania society of that time. Gradually the monastery developed a distinctive intellectual tradition which continued to thrive during the Ottoman rule period until the Greek War of Independence. In 1821 the monastery was burnt down by the Turks, but it was restored during the 19th century. In the Second World War the monks were once more expelled violently from the monastery, which was used as the headquarters of the German administration. A period of decline followed for the monastery until 1976, when it was renovated fundamentally and converted into a female monastery.
Text from Greek Travel Pages
The History of Crete, the Southest piece of land of Europe continent, encompasses the ancient Minoan civilization. After this civilization was destroyed by natural catastrophes, Crete developed an Ancient Greece influenced organazition of city states, and then successinely became part of the Roman Empire, the Byzantine Empire, the Venetian Republic, and the Ottoman Empire. Modern Crete embraces all western habits and faculties with in a multilayered-multicultured attitude due its history. It's mostly touristic without loosing its traditional nature. Visitors can choose from five stars luxury hotels to traditional villas and from hidden tracks, picturesque beaches to dancing clubs, bars and wild night life. Everyone can find his choise in Crete.
