Located on the hill of Froudia, just east of Chania, the Temple of Prophet Elias (Profitis Ilias) is a revered religious and historical monument. Originally built during the Venetian period, the smaller southern aisle was first constructed and dedicated to Prophet Elisha (Elisaios).
In the 16th century, the larger northern aisle was added, dedicated to Prophet Elias through an arched opening created on the existing northern wall. The temple suffered destruction during the bombing raids of the Great Powers but was later reconstructed.
This hilltop was a key location during the 1897 Cretan Revolution. The area served as a military camp for the Cretan Revolutionary Army, where fierce battles took place involving the European forces, the Turkish army, and Greek troops.
Adjacent to the temple lies one of the most significant political memorials in modern Greek history — the tombs of Eleftherios Venizelos and his son Sophocles Venizelos, both prominent Greek statesmen and leaders of the Liberal Party. Eleftherios Venizelos, often referred to as the "Ethnarch" (father of the nation), played a crucial role in international diplomacy and the modernization of Greece.
A short distance from the tombs stands the statue of Spyros Kagiales, a symbol of Cretan bravery and resistance. Kagiales famously used his body as a flagpole during the bombardment by the European forces in Akrotiri in 1897, becoming a legendary hero in the island's liberation efforts.
This sacred site not only offers panoramic views of Chania and the sea but also stands as a powerful tribute to the struggles for freedom, national pride, and spiritual devotion.
Chania CityGeorgioupolisElafonisiBeach BalosFalassarnaKalyvesMalemeSfakia BeachStalosHalepaKasteliKoum KapiNea ChoraProfitis EliasSplantziaTampakariaTopanasRethymnon CityAgia GaliniAnogiaArgyroupolisArkadi MonasteryBali monasteryMelidoni cavePlakiasPreveliPreveli monasteryPsiloritisSpiliFortezzaVenetian Harbor
