Saint Titus Cathedral, Heraklion
The Cathedral of Saint Titus stands as a significant Orthodox church in the heart of Heraklion, Crete, dedicated to the memory of Saint Titus. This architectural gem has witnessed a transformative history, evolving from its origins as the Yeni Cami ("New Mosque") to its present role as a revered Christian cathedral within the archdiocese of Crete.
The cathedral, with its distinctive square temple and prominent dome, showcases an eclectic architectural style. Constructed in 1869 based on the design by Athanasios Moussis, the church boasts a compelling exterior dominated by vertical elements. A stone-carved apse crowns the structure, adding to its visual allure.
Initially known as the Yeni Mosque, this building served the Muslim community until the geopolitical changes following the integration of Crete into Greece. The exchange of populations between the Balkans and Anatolia led to the restoration and consecration of the mosque for Orthodox Christian worship on May 3, 1925. Notably, the minaret of the mosque was removed during this transformation, marking a symbolic shift in its purpose.
A momentous event occurred on May 15, 1966, when the revered head of Saint Titus was returned to the church, a gesture from the city of Venice that further enriched the cathedral's historical and spiritual significance.
The cathedral, with its distinctive square temple and prominent dome, showcases an eclectic architectural style. Constructed in 1869 based on the design by Athanasios Moussis, the church boasts a compelling exterior dominated by vertical elements. A stone-carved apse crowns the structure, adding to its visual allure.
Initially known as the Yeni Mosque, this building served the Muslim community until the geopolitical changes following the integration of Crete into Greece. The exchange of populations between the Balkans and Anatolia led to the restoration and consecration of the mosque for Orthodox Christian worship on May 3, 1925. Notably, the minaret of the mosque was removed during this transformation, marking a symbolic shift in its purpose.
A momentous event occurred on May 15, 1966, when the revered head of Saint Titus was returned to the church, a gesture from the city of Venice that further enriched the cathedral's historical and spiritual significance.
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Saint Titus Cathedral on Map
Sight Name: Saint Titus Cathedral
Sight Location: Heraklion, Greece (See walking tours in Heraklion)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Sight Location: Heraklion, Greece (See walking tours in Heraklion)
Sight Type: Religious
Guide(s) Containing This Sight:
Walking Tours in Heraklion, Greece
Create Your Own Walk in Heraklion
Creating your own self-guided walk in Heraklion is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Heraklion Introduction Walking Tour
Heraklion is the vibrant capital of Crete and its primary port. The city traces its roots back to the Minoan era (from 2700 BC to 1450 BC). Under Minoan rule, the area flourished as a vital hub with the nearby palace of Knossos acting as its center of power and trade (in gold, ceramics, and saffron).
Following the Minoans' decline, Crete endured stagnation until the Roman occupation. The... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Following the Minoans' decline, Crete endured stagnation until the Roman occupation. The... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles