Mount Psiloritis in Rethymnon, Crete

Crete Mountians & Nature - Mount Psiloritis, also known as Mt. Ida, is the highest mountain in Crete, boasting five peaks including Timios Stavros, which stands at an impressive 8057 ft. (2456 m.). Previously covered in forests that have since disappeared due to soil erosion and earthquakes, the slopes of this mountain are home to several ancient caves, including Ideon Andron, Kamares Cave, Sfedoni Cave, and Melidoni Cave. With strong ties to Minoan Crete, Mount Psiloritis was once considered a holy mountain, surrounded by numerous myths and legends. Today, a stone-made church, the Holy Cross, sits atop the mountain and marks a significant spot for Christian pilgrims. On September 14th, the day of the Holy Cross, visitors from all over Crete hike to the summit of Timios Stavros, where they spend the night before joining a special ceremony inside the church. As a rocky terrain with no trees or water above 2000m, trekking on Mount Psiloritis during the summer months can be daunting due to the high temperatures and lack of shade.

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