After leaving Malta we headed to the Greek islands. The first place we docked was the port city of Chania on the island of Crete. There we visited an ancient monastery and then went on a walking tour of Chania. 

One key factor has to be kept in mind when the Greek islands are being discussed: Greek civilization developed in a variety  city-states, so while the various islands certainly have marked similarities, they all have their own stories and histories. The stories of Athens and Spartacus are a good example of this. 

Anyway here we were in Crete, so we immediately made a beeline for the Agia Triada Monastery (Holy Trinity) monastery. It is a masterpiece of Venetian Renaissance architecture. 

The monastery is a well-preserved complex that features churches, courtyards, gardens and the inevitable gift shop. The scene at the monastery, best described tranquil, includes snowcapped mountains in the distance.

After we spent quite a bit of time on the monastery grounds—not to mention the gift shop—we headed out to the city of Chania. The bishop of the diocese had just recently died so there was a large gathering of Greek Orthodox bishops and other clergy, along with other VIPs who wanted to pay their respects. 

Before heading back to the ship we did a little sightseeing at the water’s edge where we saw the Chania lighthouse.

JFB