Temples & religious sites
St Matthew of the Sinaites, Heraklion
St Matthew of the Sinaites
Located in a narrow lane in central Heraklion, this Byzantine-style church serves as a religious site with historical connections to the monastery on Mount Sinai. Visitors go here to view a collection of old icons in a small, quiet setting away from the main streets.
Getting There
The church is situated within the city centre of Heraklion. It is accessible on foot from most central hotels and landmarks. Depending on your starting point in the downtown area, the walk typically takes between 5 and 15 minutes.
Visit Duration
Because of its small size and the focused nature of the icon collection, most visitors spend approximately 30 to 60 minutes exploring the interior.
When to Visit
Visiting during weekday mornings generally offers a quieter experience. As a small space, it does not typically experience the heavy crowds found at larger cathedrals, though it is best to avoid peak religious holiday dates if you prefer a silent environment.
Nearby Attractions
The church is positioned close to several other cultural and religious sites, making it easy to combine with the following:
- Cultural and Conference Center of Heraklion (0.2km)
- Agios Minas Cathedral (0.2km)
- Agia Aikaterini (0.3km)
- Collection of Agia Aikaterini of Sinai (0.3km)
Updated September 13, 2026 · Edited by the World by City editors