Kykkos Monastery in Cyprus

This is without exaggeration the most popular of Cyprus' religious landmarks, a must-visit even for those distant from religion.

The Kykkos Monastery, located in the mountainous region of the Marathasa Valley, is the richest and most luxurious on the island, situated atop a mountain peak at an altitude of 1,318 meters. It is famous among believers for housing one of three icons painted by the Apostle Luke.

The monastery complex consists of various architectural elements from different eras. The center of the complex is the church, and around it are built the presbytery, altar, monks' cells, library, museum, reception rooms, tax office, and many more. In the center lies a large paved courtyard with a well.

• History of Kykkos Monastery
• Kykkos Monastery Today
• How to Find the Monastery
• Opening Hours
• Frequently Asked Questions

History of Kykkos Monastery

Dedicated to Panagia (the Virgin Mary), the monastery holds one of the three icons attributed to the evangelist Agios Lukas (Apostle Luke). The icon, covered in silver and gold, is housed in a shrine made of tortoiseshell and mother-of-pearl, located in front of the iconostasis. This is the main reason pilgrims visit the monastery.

According to legend, the Cypriot hermit Isaiah miraculously healed the daughter of Emperor Alexios I Komnenos (1081-1118 AD). As a reward, he asked for the icon, and although the emperor was saddened by the prospect of losing such a treasure, he sent it to Cyprus along with funds to build a monastery where the holy relic could be kept.

The monastery has burned several times, leaving none of the original structure. After a major fire in the mid-14th century, it was rebuilt using wood and stone, and the current main church was erected in the mid-16th century.

After the island was conquered by the Ottoman Empire, the monastery continued to be rebuilt and served its public and educational functions. In 1821, the Turks inflicted significant damage to the monastery, but by the late 19th century, it was rebuilt into what we see today.

Interesting facts:

• The first president of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III, served as a novice in the monastery;
• The largest bell was cast in Moscow and brought during the construction of the bell tower.

Kykkos Monastery Today

Today, most of the monastery's premises have been restored and decorated with various church images. Most of them are done in mosaics, which adorn the entrance and the walls of the inner courtyard and corridors.

Pilgrims are accommodated in new guesthouses, which, along with several other buildings, have been erected in recent years near the monastery complex.

The monks of the monastery produce zivania and other alcoholic beverages, and hold religious fairs, the most prominent of which are on September 8 (Nativity of the Virgin Mary) and August 15 (Dormition of the Virgin Mary). There is also a museum on the monastery grounds.

How to Find the Monastery

Public Transport

The Kykkos Monastery is located in the Troodos Mountains, 13 kilometers from the village of Pedoulas. If traveling by public transport, look for a bus to this village; from Nicosia, it's bus number 81. However, from the village of Pedoulas, you will need to take a taxi.

Excursions

You can find excursions to Kykkos Monastery everywhere—from street promoters to brochures at your hotel reception. If you prefer everything to be prearranged, it's better to book an excursion online. Here is a selection of tours in Cyprus from Tripster, offering both individual and group options.

By Car

This can also be a taxi, but for the price of a trip from Limassol or Nicosia (over 100 euros with waiting), you can rent a car from Localrent for several days (with options starting from 15 euros per day).

• Location on the map is below, coordinates for driving: 34.983630780781766, 32.741259554533656

Kykkos Monastery Opening Hours

• In winter (November to May), the monastery is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM
• In summer (June to October), the monastery is open from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM

The monastery has no days off but is closed during public holidays.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there a guide at the monastery?

Typically, the guide is the one who brought you on the excursion. This service is not offered separately, but if you are not part of a tour, you can download audio guides on this page.

How much is the entrance fee to the monastery?

The monastery is active, and entrance is free. You can leave donations or buy something in the church shop, including zivania and wine.

How to contact the monastery?

If you are a pilgrim or have other questions, the monastery's website (in Greek only), phone number (+357 22 942 742), and fax (+357 22 942 384) may be useful.

What else is nearby?

If you're continuing with the theme of monasteries, the Troodos Mountains are also home to the famous painted churches, which have been listed as UNESCO World Heritage Sites.

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