Monastery of St Sophia (Agia Sofia) in Armeni

A deserted monastery located in the former community of Armeni in the province of Sitia, Lasithi Prefecture. It was built on a hill, near the village of Etia. The exact date of its founding is unknown, but it is believed to have been established during the Venetian period. 

What happened during the Turkish occupation

According to the Holy Metropolis of Ierapytni and Sitia, the monastery of Agia Sophia was involved in an unfortunate incident that occurred in January 1897. During the rebellion, Cretans had captured Ottoman soldiers and brought them to the monastery in the settlement of Etia. Suddenly, news spread that the Turks of Sitia had executed Christian notables, including two Armenians. The news disturbed the local Christians, who, in retaliation, captured and executed almost all the Ottomans of Etia. 

Photo: visitsitia.gr