Church of St. Mamas in Northern Cyprus: how to get inside
The Church of St. Mamas is located in Guzelyurt (Morphou) in Northern Cyprus and is usually closed. You can enter through the neighboring archaeological museum: buy a ticket, explore the exhibition, and ask a staff member to open the church — inside, there is a museum of icons.
- Church of St. Mamas
- Who is St. Mamas
- How to visit the Church of St. Mamas
- Frequently Asked Questions
Church of St. Mamas
The church is located in Guzelyurt. Unlike some churches in Famagusta, this one was not converted into a mosque. Its interior was also not looted, nor was the church reopened as an active place of worship. Today, it houses a somewhat eclectic museum of icons. At the same time, the site is revered by the faithful — it is the third most important place of worship for Greek Orthodox Christians on the island after the tomb of St. Barnabas in Famagusta and the Monastery of Apostle Andrew on the Karpas Peninsula.
It is believed that the relics of Mamas are buried in a sarcophagus sealed within the monastery walls.
Who is St. Mamas
In Northern Cyprus, Mamas is known as a poor hermit who lived in a cave near the town of Morphou. According to local legend, he lived very humbly, and when the authorities tried to impose taxes on him, he evaded them. Soldiers were sent to capture him, but on the way back to town, Mamas saw a lion attacking a lamb, ran from the soldiers, saved the lamb, jumped onto the lion's back, and rode it into the town. Due to his bravery, he was exempted from taxes.
How to visit the Church of St. Mamas
You cannot simply walk into the church — it is locked. To enter, you need to go to the neighboring Guzelyurt Archaeological Museum and purchase a ticket. After viewing the exhibition, a museum staff member — if you remind them — will accompany you to the church, open the door, and wait while you explore the interior (which is quite modest) and the collection of old icons.
How to do it
- Arrive in Guzelyurt (Morphou) and find the archaeological museum next to the Church of St. Mamas.
- Buy a museum ticket and explore the exhibition.
- Ask the museum staff to open the church and wait while they escort you inside.
Frequently Asked Questions
What other Christian churches are there in Northern Cyprus?
Northern Cyprus has Christian churches, including active parishes and historic buildings open as museums or attractions. See the selection: Christian churches of Northern Cyprus.
Are there other icon museums in Northern Cyprus?
Yes, also in monasteries. For example, see museums of Northern Cyprus, including the icon museum in the Monastery of Barnabas.
Why is the church closed and how is it opened?
The church functions as a museum space, so entry is usually organized through the neighboring archaeological museum: a museum staff member opens the door and guides visitors inside.
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