This archaeological site is in Agia Roumeli, and we can see traces of the ancient city and cemetery. On the site, there was a temple with a strong fortification, dedicated to Apollo. In classical times, the ancient city of Tarra became an important worship centre for the cult of Apollo, and it flourished during Roman times. Findings and excavations show that this spot has been inhabited from the late Minoan era.
Archaeologists believe that at the spot where the Virgin Mary church is situated today, a short distance from the Apollo temple, there was another ancient temple dedicated to Artemis. Parts of this temple were used to build the Virgin Mary church.