Ktima Toplou

Toplou Monastery, located in northeastern Crete, is one of the most significant monasteries on the island — a fortress-like complex originally built in the 14th century at remote Cape Sidero. Known since Ottoman times as Toplou (from the Turkish word for cannon), the monastery has participated in national struggles and endured raids by pirates, the Knights of Malta, and occupying forces. Today, under the Toplou brand, the monks produce certified organic wine, olive oil, and raki — a continuation of the monastery’s centuries-long tradition of Cretan agricultural heritage.

During the German occupation in 1941, a radio operated in the monastery for communicating with the Allies in Cairo, leading to the arrest and execution of the abbot and monks. The monastery’s cultural treasures include icons by Ioannis Cornaro, among them the “Great art Thou, o Lord, and Marvelous are Thy works” icon of 1770.

Winery Tour and Wine Tasting

• Monastery & History Tour: Visit the extraordinary 14th-century fortress monastery near Sitia in eastern Crete and learn about its remarkable role in Greek national struggles.
• Organic Production: Discover how the monks of Toplou produce certified organic wine, olive oil, and raki using traditional methods that have sustained this monastery community for centuries.
• Tasting: Taste Toplou’s certified organic wines, olive oil, and raki — experiencing the unique combination of monastic tradition and Cretan terroir.

Book your visit to Ktima Toplou Monastery in Crete.