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Panagia Amirous Monastery: A Spiritual Oasis

Discover a tranquil Cypriot monastery with miraculous origins, stunning vistas, and a serene escape from the everyday near Mathikoloni.

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Nestled in the foothills of the Kakomallis Mountains near Mathikoloni, the Panagia Amirous Monastery offers a serene escape with stunning views and a rich history dating back to the 12th century. It's a place of tranquility and beauty, perfect for contemplation and exploration.

A brief summary to Panagia Amirous Monastery

  • Monday 8 am-1 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-1 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-1 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-1 pm
  • Friday 8 am-1 pm
  • Saturday 8 am-1 pm
  • Sunday 5:30 am-5:30 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting; cover your shoulders and knees as a sign of respect for this sacred site.
  • Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Take time to explore the surrounding hiking trails, which offer stunning views of the Cypriot landscape.
  • Engage with the nuns if they are available; they often share fascinating stories about the monastery's history and significance.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Limassol, take the 14B bus towards Mathikoloni. The bus departs from Leontiou EMEL Station. Check the CyBuses website for the most up-to-date timetable, as services are infrequent. Alight at the Mathikoloni Community Board bus stop. From there, it's approximately a 20-minute walk (about 1.6km) to the monastery. Follow the road signs towards the monastery. A single bus fare costs approximately €1.50.

  • Taxi/Ride-Share

    A taxi or ride-share from Limassol city center to Panagia Amirous Monastery is a direct option. The journey is approximately 23km and takes around 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between €25-€40 for a one-way trip. Ride-sharing services might have limited availability in Mathikoloni for the return journey, so pre-booking a taxi or arranging a pick-up time is recommended.

  • Driving

    From Limassol, take the road towards Apsiou. Continue through Apsiou, following signs for Mathikoloni. The monastery is located a short distance north of Mathikoloni. Limited free parking is available near the monastery. Be aware that the roads leading to the monastery can be narrow and winding in places, so drive carefully.

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Discover more about Panagia Amirous Monastery

The Panagia Amirous Monastery, a few kilometers from Mathikoloni in the Limassol district, is a captivating destination that blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Perched on the foothills of the Kakomallis mountain range, the monastery offers panoramic views stretching across the landscape to the coast of Zygi. According to local tradition, the monastery's origins trace back to the 12th century. The story tells of an Emir from Syria who was traveling by sea with his blind daughter, seeking a cure. During their voyage, the daughter experienced a vision of light emanating from a mountain. Following the light, they discovered a spring flowing from a rock, with a small icon of the Virgin Mary. The Emir's daughter washed her face with the water and miraculously regained her sight. In gratitude, the Emir commissioned a small church, which later evolved into the Panagia Amirous Monastery. Some believe the name “Amirous” comes from the Emir, while others suggest it originates from a tenant named Amira. Originally a male monastery, it flourished, housing over a hundred monks by the 17th century. However, it fell into disrepair during the Ottoman Empire and was abandoned in the late 18th century. In 1997, a woman named Maria spearheaded the restoration, re-opening it as a female monastery dedicated to Zoodochos Pigi (Life-Giving Spring). Today, a small group of nuns resides at the monastery, continuing its spiritual traditions. The icon of Vrefokratousa, believed to be the original icon found by the Emir's daughter, is still venerated within the monastery.

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