Kykkos Monastery: A Spiritual Haven in the Troodos Mountains

Kykkos Monastery, officially the Holy, Royal, and Stauropegic Monastery of Kykkos, is perched at 1,318 meters in the Marathasa Valley in the Troodos Mountains. Founded around the end of the 11th century (1081-1118) by Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, it stands as one of the most important religious centers in Cyprus. The monastery is dedicated to Panagia, the Virgin Mary, and is home to one of three icons attributed to Apostle Luke.Throughout its history, Kykkos Monastery has endured multiple fires, resulting in the loss of many ancient icons, frescoes, and manuscripts. The current structure dates back to 1831, showcasing Byzantine architecture with domes, columns, and frescoes depicting biblical scenes. Inside, visitors can admire elaborate wood and metal carvings, royal doors, and gilded icon cases.The monastery's main treasure is the icon of the Virgin Mary, Kykkotissa, said to have been painted by St. Luke. The icon is covered in silver gilt and is housed in a shrine made of tortoiseshell and mother-of-pearl. The icon remains mostly hidden behind a protective covering, as legend says that whoever looks upon its full view will be blinded.Kykkos Monastery also holds religious fairs on September 8th (Birth of the Virgin Mary) and August 15th (Dormition of the Virgin Mary). The monastery produces Zivania spirit and other alcoholic drinks. The first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III, began his ecclesiastical career here as a monk in 1926. He remained fond of the monastery and was buried 3 km west of it after his death in 1977; his tomb is a popular destination for visitors.Visitors can explore the monastery's museum, which houses a priceless collection of icons, consecrated vessels, manuscripts, and Cypriot antiquities. The library contains around 15,000 printed books and a hundred manuscripts.