Various signs seem to indicate that the area we have reached has the Minoan Cemetery nearby. However, we cannot find any evidence despite walking extensively - the only thing that is unusual is a pile of stones.

 

Our exploration of this high point provide us with tremendous views down to the coast.

 

We drive down the hill, going in the opposite direction to our ascent. The road is steep and narrow but has a good surface that suddenly gives way to a poor surface, forcing us to turn back.

 

Suddenly, we find a parking area where a notice board provides details of a walking trail and that anyone wishing to visit the Minoan Cemetery should contact the relevant archeologist to arrange entry to the site.

Even though we find another parking area, we are unable to locate the cemetery. However, walking in the area was a pleasant experience, mostly shaded by the trees and cooled by a strong breeze.

 

After our evening meal (where, unusually, the potato with the main course is not properly cooked), we walk to Sissi's harbour.

 

Today's temperature increases from hot to very hot, and the forecast for the next few days is for a 'heat wave' - the hotel staff advise caution whilst out in the sun. However, we have planned to spend a large part of the day in the car and thus benefitting from its air-conditioning. We set out at 9:30am, driving east towards Sitia, stopping at a cafe for fresh orange juice, and at viewpoints where there are vistas over the sea.

The winding mountain road takes us through wonderful scenery with the deep blue sea on our left and the mountains around us and on our right. We see lots of oleanders, olive trees, and vineyards before we reach Moni Toplou.

 

Founded in the 14th-Century, Moni Toplou is one of the wealthiest monasteries in Crete. A small church contains icons and frescoes, but photography is not allowed. A girl interprets some of the icons for us, the most interesting of which is called The Lord, Thou Art Great - this large, colourful painting comprises 61 miniature but meticulously detailed scenes.

 

To enter the church, Jeanette is required to cover her legs.

 

A small museum houses books, silverware, and vestments.

We explore the grounds of the monastery where we find bananas growing

During the Second World War, Resistance radio broadcasts were transmitted from the Monastery - an act for which the Abbot and two monks were executed by the Germans. We do not find any reference to this, but there is an inscription (left) that possibly records the settlement of a dispute between city states in 132BC.