
The (2C B. C.) inscription in the Toplou Monastery
There is also an important inscription on the left wall of the entrance to the church which is part of the Arbitration of Magnesia (132 B.C.) referring to an alliance between Itanos and Ierapytna (see Itanos). The slab was brought from Itanos for a tomb stone to be used later as an altar in the small church of Timios Stavros across the road from the monastery. The Englishman R. Pashley suggested its present position while travelling in Crete in 1834, having recognised its importance.
The main monastery church is a double-aisled basilica, consecrated to the Nativity of Our Lady and Agios Ioannis Theologos (celebrating 8 and 26 September respectively). The church also contains some fourteenth century frescoes on the north wall and a rare antique carved altar screen.
Photos of The Monastery of Toplou:

The Venetian church Timios Stavros, Moni Toplou

Timios Stavros Church near Moni Toplou

The Venetian church Timios Stavros, Moni Toplou

The (2C B. C.) inscription in the Toplou Monastery
Visit the area of the sight: Toplou Monastery
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