Natural History Museum of Crete

Adjacent to the small church once devoted to Saint Minas and the Presentation of Christ to the Temple, now known as the “small Saint Minas,” arose a striking new sanctuary honoring Saint Minas (Agios Minas), revered as the patron saint and defender of the Grand Castle. Erected in 1895, this impressive structure intertwines legend, tradition, and the town’s historical narrative. Commencing its construction in 1862, the church endured over 30 years of meticulous craftsmanship.

Today, this new cathedral remains among Greece’s most magnificent and commanding churches, serving as a focal point for religious and historical celebrations in Heraklion. Particularly, it holds significance on November 11th, commemorating the grand feast of Saint Minas.

Architected by Athanasios Mousis and funded by contributions from monasteries and the devout, this monumental church embodies an inscribed cruciform design crowned by a dome atop a lofty pedestal. Internally, it boasts elements reminiscent of a three-nave basilica. Anchoring the structure are two bell towers situated at the northeast and southwest corners. The intricately crafted iconostasis and episcopal throne, sculpted from white and green Tinos marble, were envisioned in the early 20th century by Anastasios Orlandos and embellished by F. Skaris. The frescoes, attributed to the hagiographer Stelios Kartakis, date back to 1960.

Notably, on the church’s northern exterior, rests an unexploded bomb dropped during the German bombing of Heraklion in 1941—a miraculous event that stands as a poignant testament to history.