On holiday in Heraklion? Don’t miss a visit to the Church of Saint-Pierre-des-Dominicains! This edifice, located in the heart of the city, is a remarkable testimony to the Venetian period in Crete. Built in the 13th century, it has undergone numerous transformations over the centuries. We were impressed by its Gothic architecture. Partly restored, it now hosts a variety of cultural exhibitions and offers a journey back in time through Cretan history.
In this article, you’ll find some useful tips to help you prepare for your visit and have a wonderful time!
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We visited the region anonymously, making our own choices and paying our bills in full.
Why visit Saint-Pierre-des-Dominicains Church?
Is the church worth it? Our opinion:
Yes, theChurch of St. Peter of the Dominicans (also known as the Monastery/Church of Saints Peter and Paul or Peter’s Monastery) is well worth a visit. This magnificent Gothic church is an important testimony to the Venetian presence on Crete. We were particularly impressed by its unique architecture, which contrasts with the Orthodox architectural styles usually found on the island. The interior reveals fascinating historical treasures, including medieval tombs and ancient frescoes. On the outside, you can observe archaeological remains. We recommend this visit for its exceptional cultural and historical interest!
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Why is the church famous?
The Church of St. Peter of the Dominicans is famous for being the only preserved example of Venetian Gothic architecture in Heraklion. This emblematic monument bears witness to Western influence during the Venetian occupation of Crete between the 13th and 17th centuries. The church is also recognized for its historical importance as the city’s main Catholic religious center during this period.
Our favorite moments
- During our visit to the Monastery of Saints Peter and Paul, we were particularly captivated by theimposing Gothic nave and its remarkable wooden framework, which offers an interesting visual experience. If you look up, you’ll feel the majesty of this sacred space that has stood the test of time.
- We also enjoyed observing the fragments of ancient frescoes in the side chapels, relics of Venetian art.
- We were equally impressed by theexterior architecture, with its sober facade featuring distinctive, colorful Gothic elements that stand out in Heraklion’s urban landscape.
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History in brief
The Church of St. Peter the Dominican was founded by the Dominican order in the 13th century, during the Venetian domination of Crete. It was officially consecrated in 1307 as the Church of St. Peter the Martyr. As we walk through its history-laden walls, we feel the imprint of successive centuries. In 1508, a violent earthquake caused considerable damage to the building, necessitating a complete rebuild in the years that followed. After the Ottoman conquest of Heraklion in 1669, the church was transformed into a mosque, in keeping with the common practice of the new rulers.
From the 19th century onwards, the building lost its religious function and was mainly used as a warehouse. You’ll be fascinated by the many metamorphoses this place has undergone over the years. In modern times, in recognition of its historical and architectural value, the church has been designated a protected monument. Following recent restorations, we can now admire this building open to the public as a cultural exhibition space and historical site, bearing witness to the city’s rich and complex history.
Access: Monastery of Saints Peter and Paul, Heraklion
Where is the church?
- In the historic center of Heraklion
- It borders Sophocles Venizelos Avenue, which in turn borders the Aegean Sea.
- Close to the Koules Fortress and the Historical Museum of Crete
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How to get there?
There are several options for reaching the Monastery of Saints Peter and Paul:
- The building is within easy walking distance of the city’s main attractions.
- If you’re taking public transport, the nearest stop is “SOFOKLI VENIZELOU – ISTORIKO MOUSIO” on the local transport network. To plan your itinerary, please consult the route maps, timetables and fares here.
- You can also opt for a sightseeing bus tour . Hop-on-hop-off buses are a great way to visit all the sights quickly and easily. Book your Hop-On-Hop-Off pass now.
Parking
If you’re coming by car, be aware that parking can be difficult in Heraklion’s historic center. We recommend the nearest parking lot: Parking Theseus Heraklion Cityan 8-minute walk away.
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Useful tips: duration, schedules, eating…
Best time to visit
To get the most out of Saint Peter’s Church, we recommend visiting in the early morning or during lunchtime, when there are fewer tourist groups.
Length of visit and main difficulties
- Allow between 20 and 45 minutes to visit the building, the exhibition, the chapels and their treasures, and the archaeological remains.
- Access to the church does not present any major difficulties, but there are a few steps in some parts. The main nave is accessible to people with reduced mobility.
Advice on how to visit
There’s no particular direction to follow. Explore the main nave, the chapels and the archaeological remains at your own pace.
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Schedules and rates
- Schedules:
- Monday to Friday and Sunday: 10 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.
- closed on Saturday
- Price: €5
Catering
There are no catering facilities on site. On the other hand, you’re right in the center of town, close to a number of establishments. Discover our favorite restaurants in Heraklion, to enjoy before or after your visit.
Admire its Gothic architecture, witness to the Venetian past
As soon as we arrived at the Church of St. Peter of the Dominicans, we were struck by its unique architectural style, in stark contrast to the traditional Orthodox churches of Crete. This Venetian construction, with its slender lines and harmonious proportions, bears witness to the important Western influence during the period when Heraklion (then called Candia) was under Venetian rule.
You’ll immediately notice the distinctive Mediterranean Gothic features evident in the sober yet elegant façade. Our eyes were particularly drawn to the external buttresses that support the structure and the remains of typical Gothic pointed arches. If you look closely, you’ll also notice the lancet windows, typical of Gothic architecture, which allow light to flood into the interior of the church.
This architectural style, rare on Crete, makes the church a precious example of the Venetian heritage that left its mark on the island for almost 4 centuries.
Once inside the Monastery of Saints Peter and Paul, we invite you to admire the majestic Gothic nave, one of the building’s most impressive architectural features. The remarkable height of the walls creates a sense of spiritual elevation characteristic of Western Gothic churches. We were particularly captivated by the wooden framework that crowns the building – a rare example of this type of structure on Crete. The massive beams, arranged in a traditional Venetian pattern, testify to the skill of the craftsmen of the time.
You can see how the Cretan sun streams in through the side openings, bathing the space in a lovely soft, natural light that enhances the harmonious proportions of the space. During our visit, we took the time to appreciate this majestic space and its wooden vault, remarkably well-preserved despite the centuries and the many transformations the building has undergone.
During your visit, you may also have the chance to admire an exhibition of religious art. We enjoyed observing the works displayed throughout the nave of the building: mosaics, paintings… by local artists.
Explore the side chapels and their ancient frescoes
Walking through the church, we discovered the 4 side chapels, which bear witness to the artistic wealth of the Venetian era. Some of them (the south-east chapel and the south chapel) contain partially preserved medieval frescoes. We enjoyed observing the fragments that have survived the building’s many transformations. They depict religious scenes typical of Western Catholic iconography (representations of the Nativity, the Virgin and Child, Saint Peter of the Dominicans, Saint Catherine, Saint Helena and Constantine).
We particularly appreciated the delicate shades of ochre and blue that have stood the test of time, revealing the talent of the Venetian artists who worked here. As you approach the walls, you can make out ornamental motifs and silhouettes of saints, offering a fascinating glimpse into the original splendor of these chapels. Recent restorations have stabilized these precious artistic remains, giving us the opportunity to contemplate these unique testimonies to sacred art in Crete under Western influence.
We also learned that many of the island’s dukes of Crete and Venetian nobles, as well as members of 3 brotherhoods, were buried inside the church. Ancient tombs can be seen in one of the chapels.
Take a trip back in time through historical remains
The archaeological excavations near the Monastery of Saints Peter and Paul, visible around the building, offer a real plunge into Heraklion’s history. You may even catch a glimpse of the superimposed layers of history that tell the story of this place’s evolution.
We have learned that archaeological excavations in this area have uncovered a vast cemetery dating back to the 11th century AD (the island’s second Byzantine period), according to the funerary objects found. Beneath the cemetery, a vast complex of buildings organized around an open courtyard with a well at its center was discovered. This complex dates back to the period of Arab occupation of the town (828-961 AD).
Frequently asked questions
Is the church still an active place of worship?
No, Saint-Pierre-des-Dominicains Church is no longer an active place of worship. Having served as a Catholic church during the Venetian period, then as a mosque during the Ottoman occupation, the building has seen a variety of uses over the centuries. Today, it functions primarily as a historical site and cultural exhibition space. We’ve noticed that the church regularly hosts temporary exhibitions of contemporary art or cultural events that showcase its exceptional architecture. You can therefore visit this monument for its historical and architectural interest, but you won’t find any regular religious services.
