Kykkos Monastery

If you are looking for a place to experience the history, culture and spirituality of Cyprus, you might want to visit Kykkos Monastery. This is one of the most famous and revered monasteries on the island, and it has a lot to offer to visitors. Kykkos Monastery is located in the Troodos Mountains, about 75 km from Nicosia, the capital of Cyprus. It was founded in the late 11th century by Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, who donated a precious icon of the Virgin Mary to a hermit monk named Esaias. The icon was painted by Saint Luke himself, and it is believed to have miraculous powers. The icon is kept in a silver-gilt shrine in the main church of the monastery, and it is covered with a veil so that no one can see it. The monastery has been rebuilt several times over the centuries, due to fires, earthquakes and raids. The current buildings date from the 18th and 19th centuries, and they reflect the wealth and influence of Kykkos Monastery. The complex consists of two courtyards surrounded by arcades, chapels, cells, workshops, storerooms and a museum. The museum displays various religious artifacts, such as icons, manuscripts, vestments and relics. The main church of Kykkos Monastery is dedicated to Panagia (the Virgin Mary), and it is decorated with frescoes, mosaics and wood-carvings. The church also contains the tombs of three archbishops of Cyprus: Makarios III (1913-1977), who was also the first president of independent Cyprus; Chrysostomos I (1927-2007), who was his successor; and Nikiforos (1932-2009), who was his brother³. These archbishops played an important role in the modern history of Cyprus. Kykkos Monastery is open daily except on public holidays. There is no entrance fee for visiting the monastery or its museum. However, visitors are expected to dress modestly (no shorts or sleeveless shirts) and behave respectfully (no smoking or photography inside). You can also buy souvenirs or light candles at the monastery's shops. The monastery is not only a place of worship but also a place of learning. It has a library with thousands of books on theology, philosophy and history. It also has a school for monks who want to study theology or become priests. Many prominent figures have studied at Kykkos Monastery over time. Kykkos Monastery is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in exploring Cyprus's rich heritage. It offers a glimpse into its past glory as well as its present challenges. It also provides an opportunity for spiritual reflection and inspiration.