This is a beautiful and picturesque village on the mountain west
of Heraklion. At night, the city lights are visible from the balconies
of the village cafes, while you enjoy your coffee or snacks with
the ever-present raki. In addition,
when the city gets truly hot, the altitude of 300 metres in Rogdia
guarantees a breath of fresh air. Just before the entrance to the
village, turn left to visit the Savvathiani Monastery. The monastery
is an oasis for the area, as it is full of trees, and has a well-tended
garden. There are two churches: Panagia ( natural Mary), dating from
the l6th century, and Agios Antonios, from the 15th century.
One
section of the church is built inside a cave, and connected to
the rest of the monastery by a small bridge, built in 1535. You
can buy traditional embroidery from the Monastery's handicraft
shop.
