Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas

The Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas is a significant religious monument located in Cyprus, known for its unique name and impressive architecture. Its history dates back to the 12th century, during the Middle Byzantine period. The name of the monastery is believed to have originated either from the pea plant or the word "ierakas," which means falcon. Over the centuries, the monastery experienced a decline, and today, only the two-story building on the north side of the church, used as the priest's residence, remains. The architectural design of the Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas is typical of other monasteries found in Cyprus. It has a one-aisled type with a dome, and its roof is shaped like a cross. What sets this monastery apart is its impressive frescoes that present a completed series with frescoes of the neoclassical rhythm of Byzantine art. The frescoes depict elegant and refined forms with Hellenistic influences, rich representations on all the walls of the church, and the rich movement of the garments. The most famous images of the church are those of Christ and the Virgin Mary of Arakas, which date back to the end of the 12th century. The painter paid great attention to detail and used an intense confrontation of light and shadow on the face, especially that of Christ's. These frescoes are considered some of the best examples of Byzantine art in Cyprus. In 1985, the Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas, along with nine other wall-painted Byzantine churches of Troodos mountain, was included in the list of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. This recognition solidified the cultural significance of the monastery and brought much-needed attention to its preservation. Today, visitors can see the remaining two-story building and the church with its impressive frescoes. While the monastery may have experienced a decline over the centuries, its cultural significance has not been lost. It remains a vital part of Cyprus's religious heritage and an important example of Byzantine art. The Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas is a unique religious monument located in Cyprus with an interesting history and impressive frescoes. While only a portion of the monastery remains, its cultural significance has not been lost, and it continues to be an essential part of Cyprus's religious heritage. Its inclusion in the UNESCO World Heritage Sites list ensures its preservation for generations to come, and visitors are encouraged to see it up close to fully appreciate its beauty and historical significance.