Background

Archangelos Michael Church: Kyrenia's Iconic Icon Museum

Discover Kyrenia's Archangelos Michael Church, a 19th-century icon museum showcasing Northern Cyprus's religious heritage and Byzantine architecture.

4.2

The Archangelos Michael Church, a former Greek Orthodox church dating back to the mid-19th century, now serves as the Kyrenia Icon Museum. Its prominent white bell tower is a recognizable landmark in Kyrenia, and the museum houses a collection of 18th and 19th-century religious icons.

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 such as Kyrenia Castle and the Agha Cafer Pasha Mosque.
  • Dress respectfully when visiting, as it is a former place of worship.
widget icon

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.

  • Public Transport

    The Archangelos Michael Church is located near Kyrenia Harbour, a central hub accessible by dolmuş (shared minibus). Dolmuşes are a budget-friendly way to get around Kyrenia, with fares typically ranging from 2.50 TL to 5 TL for local trips. Check the destination displayed on the minibus and flag it down along its route. Payment is made to the driver when you get off.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    Taxis are readily available throughout Kyrenia. Ask the driver to take you to the Archangelos Michael Church (Kyrenia Icon Museum) on Canbulat Street, near Kyrenia Harbour. Agree on the fare before starting your trip, as taxis in Kyrenia typically do not use meters. A ride from most locations in Kyrenia should cost around €10-€15.

Unlock the Best of Archangelos Michael Church

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Archangelos Michael Church

Located in the heart of Kyrenia, the Archangelos Michael Church stands as a testament to the area's rich cultural and religious history. Constructed around 1860, the former Greek Orthodox church was transformed into the Kyrenia Icon Museum in 1990. The church's architecture blends traditional Byzantine and 19th-century Cypriot styles. Its most striking feature is the white bell tower, a later addition during Ottoman rule, which rises above the Kyrenia harbor. The building was erected on the site of a former tower that was part of Kyrenia's old town wall. The church itself is designed in a cross-in-square style, featuring a cylindrical dome resting on four piers. Inside, the museum showcases an impressive collection of icons from the 18th and 19th centuries, gathered from Orthodox churches across Northern Cyprus. These icons depict various sacred Christian figures and events, offering visitors a glimpse into the religious artistry of the time. Among the notable works are 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 place of honor in the museum's center. As of early 2025, the Archangelos Michael Church was closed for restoration. However, visitors can still appreciate the building's exterior and architectural details.

Popular Experiences near Archangelos Michael Church

Popular Hotels near Archangelos Michael Church

Select Currency