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The Catholicon of the Venetian Monastery of St. Francis
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The Catholicon of the Venetian Monastery of St. Francis

Monasteries & ChurchesChania
The Catholicon of the Venetian Monastery of St. Francis photo 2
The Catholicon of the Venetian Monastery of St. Francis photo 3
The Catholicon of the Venetian Monastery of St. Francis photo 4
The Catholicon of the Venetian Monastery of St. Francis photo 5

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Chalidon Street, Old Town of Chani

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AreaChania
HoursCheck before you go
TypeMonasteries & Churches
PriceFree to visit

Overview

The Catholicon of the Venetian Monastery of St. Francis is one of Chania’s most remarkable historical buildings, now home to the Archaeological Museum of Chania.Built during the Venetian rule (13th-17th century), it was the largest Franciscan monastery in Crete. \n\rThe church stands out for its Gothic architecture with Renaissance elements, featuring impressive arches and a simple yet imposing interior.After the Ottoman conquest of Chania, the monastery was converted into a mosque, known as the Yusuf Pasha Mosque. Over the years, it served as a warehouse and even a cinema before being repurposed as the building that now houses the Archaeological Museum.

Monasteries & Churches

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