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Gialia Monastery: A Journey Through Time

Discover the ruins of Gialia Monastery, a medieval Georgian Orthodox site near Polis Chrysochous, Cyprus, offering a unique glimpse into history and culture.

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Nestled in the Paphos forest, near Polis Chrysochous, the Gialia Monastery is a ruined medieval Georgian Orthodox monastery dedicated to the Virgin Mary. Founded in the 10th century, it offers a glimpse into Cyprus's rich history and the island's connections to Georgian culture.

A brief summary to Gialia Monastery

  • Monastery of Panagia Chrysogialiotissa, CY

Local tips

  • The road to the monastery includes a dirt track; consider using a vehicle suitable for unpaved roads.
  • Combine your visit with a trip to nearby Polis Chrysochous or other attractions in the Paphos region.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a cooler and quieter experience.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Polis Chrysochous, take the coastal road towards Gialia village. Follow signs for the Monastery of Panagia Chrysogialiotissa. The route includes a stretch on a dirt track, approximately 5km east of Gialia village, so drive carefully. Parking is available near the monastery entrance. Note that the last kilometer or so is a rough dirt track.

  • Public Transport

    From Polis Chrysochous, take bus 643A or 643B towards Gialia. Get off at the designated stop in Gialia village. From there, it's approximately a 5km walk or taxi ride to the monastery. Check the bus schedule in advance as services may be infrequent. A single bus fare from Polis to Gialia is approximately €2.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are available in Polis Chrysochous. A taxi from Polis to Gialia Monastery will cost approximately €16-€20 and take around 15 minutes. Negotiate the fare before starting your journey. Taxi services like Philippos Taxi and Nissos Taxi operate in the area.

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Discover more about Gialia Monastery

Located approximately 5 kilometers from the coast, near Polis Chrysochous, Gialia Monastery, also known as the Monastery of Panagia Chrysogialiotissa, presents a unique historical site. Founded between 970 and 979 by David Kuropalates, a Georgian King, the monastery served as a significant center for Georgian culture in Cyprus. The monastery's main church features a unique tri-conch domed design, the only one of its kind on the island, though similar designs are found in Georgia. During its active centuries, Gialia Monastery was a vibrant hub of religious and intellectual life. It housed an important educational center where books were transcribed and translated. The monastery was well-maintained by Georgian royalty, including David Agmashenebeli and Queen Tamar. Ancient texts suggest that Gialia Monastery was one of Cyprus's wealthiest monastic institutions, with a substantial annual income. Excavations have revealed two primary structures: the original Virgin Mary church and the later St. George's Chapel, likely built in the 11th and 12th centuries. The monastery complex also included a bell tower, monks' burial grounds, a mill, and a water reservoir. Although the monastery was reportedly plundered in the 16th century and suffered earthquake damage, it appears to have been in use until 1935, before being further destroyed by an earthquake in 1953. Archaeological work, particularly since 2006, has unearthed valuable artifacts, including frescoes, inscriptions, pottery, and coins, offering insights into the monastery's history and its connections to the Georgian Orthodox Church. Today, the site is protected with a roof and is open for visitors to explore.

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