Background

Kykkos Monastery: A Spiritual Haven in the Troodos Mountains

Discover Cyprus's opulent Kykkos Monastery in the Troodos Mountains, a spiritual haven with Byzantine art and a revered icon of the Virgin Mary.

4.7

Nestled in the Troodos Mountains, Kykkos Monastery is Cyprus's wealthiest and most famous monastery, founded in the late 11th century by Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it houses a revered icon believed to be painted by St. Luke. The monastery's stunning Byzantine art, mosaics, and frescoes, combined with its rich history and spiritual significance, make it a must-see destination.

A brief summary to Kykkos Monastery

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the monastery; shawls and cover-up clothing are provided at the entrance.
  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Explore the monastery museum to see its collection of icons, religious artifacts, and manuscripts.
  • Take the winding road to the Throni peak, 3km west of the monastery, to visit the tomb of Archbishop Makarios III.
  • Sample traditional Cypriot food at local restaurants in nearby villages like Prodromos.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Driving

    Kykkos Monastery is located in the Troodos Mountains, approximately 20km west of Pedoulas. From Nicosia, the drive takes about 1 hour and 38 minutes via A9 and B9. From Paphos, it's about a 1-hour and 45-minute drive via A6 and E606. Be aware that the roads in the Troodos Mountains are winding. There is ample free parking available for both cars and buses outside the monastery.

  • Public Transport

    While there is no direct bus to Kykkos Monastery, you can take a bus from major cities like Nicosia or Paphos to a nearby village and then take a taxi to the monastery. From Nicosia, take a bus to Mitropoliti Chrysanthou Sarigianni - Atsas 1, then transfer to line 82 to Kykkos; the journey takes approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes and costs €4-€8. From Paphos, take line 637 to Asprogia - Panagia Road - 1st Stop, then take a taxi to Kykkos. The bus from Paphos to Asprorgia costs approximately €3, and the taxi from Asprogia to Kykkos will cost approximately €40-€50. Alternatively, consider joining a guided tour that includes transportation to the monastery.

Unlock the Best of Kykkos Monastery

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Kykkos Monastery

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.

Popular Experiences near Kykkos Monastery

Popular Hotels near Kykkos Monastery

Select Currency