The Cretans refer to it as the "Great Monastery" of Crete.

It is said that it got its name from the Turkish word "top" which means cannon, as during the years of the Venetian occupation there was a small cannon on its walls which protected the Monastery.

Today it produces wine and olive oil of excellent quality. You can have a wine-tasting session (try the "Thrapsathiri" Gerto white wine, it's excellent) and lunch at its taverna. A must-visit during your Lassithi road trips in Crete. Perfect to combine with the palm tree forest of Vai, the beaches of Xerokambos, the city of Sitia, Zakros and Ierapetra.