Agios Titos Church

About

Agios Titos Church sits in the heart of Heraklion on Crete, a modest yet historically rich pilgrimage site that chronicles the island’s layered past. Originally erected by the Byzantines in the late 6th century, the church later served as a cathedral during the first and second Byzantine periods. It survived the Venetian occupation – becoming the seat of the Latin Archbishop – and endured fire in 1544 and a devastating earthquake in 1856. Restoration work in 1872–1922 returned the structure to its former glory, preserving a blend of Byzantine and Venetian architectural traditions. The complex underwent further transformation during Ottoman rule, when it was converted into a mosque known as the “Visir Tzami.” After Crete’s liberation it reverted to a Christian place of worship. The present building largely dates from the late 19th and early 20th centuries, yet its cross‑plan layout, wooden iconostasis, and array of age‑old icons offer a tangible link to the island’s medieval religious heritage. A point of special reverence is the skull of Saint Titus – a relic brought from Venice in 1956 – housed in the church’s shrine. The adjacent courtyard, framed by stone altars and winding streets of old Heraklion, creates an intimate atmosphere ideal for quiet reflection, making it a captivating destination for both casual visitors and devoted pilgrims alike.

Highlights

• Ancient Architecture
• Saint Titus Relic
• Iconostasis

Must-See Areas

Good to Know

At a glance

• Typical visit: about 30 minutes