The ascent can start from the village Meronas to the twin peaks of the mountain of “Holy Spirit” where the cognominal small church is situated (at a height of 1.000 m.) where every year a Mass takes place and a little higher to the peak “Sopata” (1.100 m.). The position of the mountain gives the possibility of vast visibility to all directions. The well-known herb ”dictamo” of Crete (dittany) is grown on the mountain, usually on steep and hard to reach spots.
The mountain is situated between Psiloritis and Kedros. The ascent to the peak can begin from the villages Amari, Opsigias or Monastiraki. The climbing is relatively easy and lasts about 2 hours. The small church of St Dimitrios is found at a height of 800 m. above the village Opsigias. On the east side of the slope at the same height, there is a cave “Bana” near a small spring, which was a place of worshiping the ancient God Pan.
As we move on towards the peak after about half an hour, we come across the shaped platform where skydiving from the slope begins (to five) and its diving and landing on the plain of the village Sholi Asomaton gives a spectacular sight. On the peak the stone church of Lord – Christ is built. The panoramic view embraces all the area of the Municipality and goes up to the Libuan and the Cretan Sea.
A silent harmonious agreement is accomplished in this fascinating place with the unique natural beauty. The gushing springs, the thick and lush vegetation, the endemic plants, the temple of St. Antonios which is located inside a cave, the birds look-out-post, the small caves, the geological breach in relief, entrance and capture the visitor.
The flute of Pana’s son and the Nymphs’ songs, according to mythology, echoed here and Kranaios Hermes, the favourite God of the Cretans, was worshiped here.
The Byzantine Temples are scattered among the villages and inside them. The carved wooden screens, the icons and the special architecture are impressive. They prove the prime height of the area during the period of their building. They reveal above all the great timeless, devoutness of the inhabitants.
