Many visitors to Gavalochori never see the Church of Saint John because they cannot drive all the way there. This hike of .8 kilometers (half a mile) is a perfect way to see this gem of Gavalochori, which dates to medieval times and is located in a spectacular setting high on a hill overlooking the area.
The church began as a monastery of nuns, but it was destroyed by the Turks in the late 17th century. It was renovated in 1852 into the form you see it in today. The church celebrates Saint John, who lived much of his life in the desert as an acetic. His preaching brought him to the attention of Jesus, who sought him out and asked him to baptize him.
To begin your hike, start in the main square of Gavalochori, and follow the signs that point up the hill to the Venetian Wells.
At the top of the hill, turn right on the upper of two roads that intersect the road that goes up the hill. Don’t turn left to the Venetian Wells. Follow this upper road, keeping left past a number of houses.
You will encounter a livestock gate across the road that may be open or closed. If it is closed, it’s fine to untie the rope and go through the gate. Just be sure to re-tie the rope behind you so that the goats and sheep don’t get loose.
Look up the hill to your left, and you will see the church. Although this church is usually kept locked, its setting alone is inspiring and meditative.
Many visitors to Gavalochori never see the Church of Saint John because they cannot drive all the way there. This hike of .8 kilometers (half a mile) is a perfect way to see this gem of Gavalochori, which dates to medieval times and is located in a spectacular setting high on a hill overlooking the area.
The church began as a monastery of nuns, but it was destroyed by the Turks in the late 17th century. It was renovated in 1852 into the form you see it in today. The church celebrates Saint John, who lived much of his life in the desert as an acetic. His preaching brought him to the attention of Jesus, who sought him out and asked him to baptize him.
To begin your hike, start in the main square of Gavalochori, and follow the signs that point up the hill to the Venetian Wells.
At the top of the hill, turn right on the upper of two roads that intersect the road that goes up the hill. Don’t turn left to the Venetian Wells. Follow this upper road, keeping left past a number of houses.
You will encounter a livestock gate across the road that may be open or closed. If it is closed, it’s fine to untie the rope and go through the gate. Just be sure to re-tie the rope behind you so that the goats and sheep don’t get loose.
Look up the hill to your left, and you will see the church. Although this church is usually kept locked, its setting alone is inspiring and meditative.
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