Archangelos Michael Church: A Kyrenia Icon

Discover a treasure trove of religious art at the Archangelos Michael Church in Kyrenia, now the Kyrenia Icon Museum, showcasing centuries of Cypriot history and culture.

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Archangelos Michael Church

The Archangelos Michael Church, located in Kyrenia, is a captivating blend of religious history and architectural beauty. Originally built in the 19th century as a Greek Orthodox church, it now serves as the Kyrenia Icon Museum, showcasing a collection of 18th and 19th-century icons gathered from churches across Northern Cyprus. The church's distinctive white bell tower rises above the surrounding harbor buildings, making it a prominent landmark. Inside, visitors can admire depictions of Saint George, the beheading of John the Baptist, and the Virgin and Child, as well as ancient bibles and ornamental staff. The serene atmosphere and historical significance make it a must-see for those interested in culture and religious art. While currently closed for restoration as of early 2025, the exterior remains a sight to behold, and plans are in place to reopen the museum to the public.

A brief summary to Archangelos Michael Church

88R9+RCG, Atilla Sk, Kyrenia, CY

Local tips

Check the Kyrenia Municipality website for updates on the museum's reopening after restoration.
Combine your visit with a stroll around Kyrenia Harbour and explore nearby historical sites.
Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is a former place of worship.
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon to avoid crowds once the museum reopens.

Getting There

Walking

From Kyrenia Harbour, head west along the coastal road (Canbulat Street). The church is located a short walk from the harbor, approximately 500 meters. Look for the distinctive white bell tower rising above the surrounding buildings. The entrance to the museum is located on Canbulat Street.
Public Transport

From the main bus station in Kyrenia, take a local dolmuş (minibus) heading towards the city center. Ask the driver to drop you off near Kyrenia Harbour. From there, walk west along Canbulat Street for approximately 500 meters. The dolmuş fare is typically around 2.50 TL to 5 TL. Please note that buses are infrequent and do not run on a strict timetable.
Taxi/Ride-Share

Taxis are readily available throughout Kyrenia. Simply ask the driver to take you to the Archangelos Michael Church (Kyrenia Icon Museum) on Canbulat Street, near Kyrenia Harbour. The ride should cost around €10-€15 from most locations in Kyrenia.
Driving

If driving, head towards Kyrenia Harbour. From the roundabout near the harbor, take the exit onto Canbulat Street. Continue along Canbulat Street until you see the church on your left. Parking may be available on the street nearby, but it can be limited, especially during peak tourist season. Some hotels in Kyrenia offer free parking.

Discover more about Archangelos Michael Church

Archangelos Michael Church, now known as the Kyrenia Icon Museum, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of Northern Cyprus. Constructed in the mid-19th century, around 1860, on the site of an ancient tower that was part of the old Kyrenia town wall, this Greek Orthodox church has transformed into a repository of sacred art, housing icons dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The church's architecture is a blend of styles, with a distinctive white bell tower added approximately 25 years after its initial construction, during the final years of Ottoman rule. The eastern section of the church features a cruciform design with a cupola, while the newer part reflects 19th-century Cypriot architectural influences. Inside, six pillars are arranged in two rows, adding to the church's grandeur. The north facade is adorned with three large blind arches, a characteristic of Byzantine architecture. In 1974, the church was abandoned, and in June 1990, it was restored by the Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus and opened to the public as a museum. The museum's collection comprises icons gathered from Orthodox churches throughout Northern Cyprus, including notable depictions of Saint George and the Dragon, the beheading of John the Baptist, and the Virgin and Child. The oldest icon on display dates back to the early 18th century and holds a prominent place in the museum's center. The Archangelos Michael Church is more than just a museum; it is a symbol of the island's multifaceted history and cultural tapestry. The icons within its walls tell stories of faith, artistry, and the enduring spirit of the Cypriot people. The building itself has undergone several construction phases, reflecting the architectural styles of different periods, from the Byzantine era to the 20th century. The church is a twin structure, comprising two churches attached to each other, with an additional open portico on the south side. Visiting the Archangelos Michael Church offers a unique glimpse into the religious and artistic traditions of Cyprus. The icons, with their intricate details and vibrant colors, provide a window into the spiritual life of the past. The museum also houses ancient bibles and an ornamental staff, adding to the richness of the collection. The iconostasis, complete with its icons and topped by a splendid crowning feature, is a testament to the skill and artistry of the craftsmen who created it. Located west of Kyrenia Harbor, the Archangelos Michael Church is easily accessible and is surrounded by other historical landmarks, such as Kyrenia Port, the Sunken Ship Museum, and the Ağa Cafer Pasha Mosque. The church's central location makes it a convenient stop for tourists exploring the city. While the Archangelos Michael Church is currently closed for restoration as of early 2025, visitors can still admire the building's exterior and appreciate its architectural beauty. The restoration efforts are aimed at preserving the church's historical and cultural significance for future generations. Once the restoration is complete, the museum will once again welcome visitors to explore its collection of icons and learn about the rich religious heritage of Cyprus. Whether you are interested in history, art, or religion, the Archangelos Michael Church is a must-see destination in Kyrenia. Its transformation from a place of worship to a museum has ensured that its legacy lives on, offering a glimpse into the past and a celebration of Cypriot culture.

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

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Bellapais Palace

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Address

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Archangelos Michael Church: A Kyrenia Icon

A brief summary to Archangelos Michael Church

Local tips

Getting There

Walking

Public Transport

Taxi/Ride-Share

Driving

Unlock the Best of Archangelos Michael Church

Buy tickets

Book tours with entry

Book tours without entry

Discover more about Archangelos Michael Church

Iconic landmarks you can’t miss

Kyrenia Harbour Apartments

Kyrenia Harbour Turk Republic of north cyprus

The Round Tower

St. Andrew's Church

Niazi's Restaurant

Ottoman Baldöken Cemetery

Eziç Peanuts

ENTER hostel

Kyrenia

Bellapais Palace

Bellapais Monastery Village Hotel

Kyrenia Road Forest

Kybele Restaurant Girne Kıbrıs

Karmi Tunç Çağı Mezarlığı

Karaoğlanoğlu cemetary

Unmissable attractions to see

Icon Museum

Kordonboyu Park

Statue of Ataturk

Aphrodite Boat Trips

Panagia Chrysopolitissa Church

Bandabuliya

Kyrenia Harbour

Girne Historic Lighthouse

Historic Lighthouse

Ağa Cafer Pasha Mosque

Kyrenia harbor boat tours

Girne (Kyrenia) Castle

Vela Yachting LTD

Shipwreck Museum

Kyrenia Attractions

Essential places to dine

Nima Restaurant & Lounge Bar

African Corner

6 Brothers Cafe Bar

Hellim Cafe

TRYPİTİ Seafood Restaurant

Set Fish Restaurant

Kyrenia Four Season Restaurant

La Casa De Pasta

Jakaranda Café & Restaurant

Corner Balık Restaurant

Mindal Georgian Restaurant №1

Anchor Cafe & Restaurant

Kıbrıs Evi

Cafe Chimera

The George

Markets, malls and hidden boutiques

Fanus Gift and Carpet Shop

ALİ BABA & SWEETY TURKISH DELIGHT

Boutique Cyprus Gifts

World Of Leather, Kyrenia

Kyrenia Gift Shop

Ertan market

Next Designer

Vero Marca

Yolo Trend-Kıbrıs Pazarı

Madani Bazaar Cyprus

Wool and craft shop.

BRANDSTORE

Address

Ycl Fashion

Icon Cyprus

Essential bars & hidden hideouts

Space Lounge Bar

Karaf House