Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas: A UNESCO World Heritage Site
Discover Byzantine art and serene landscapes at this UNESCO World Heritage site nestled in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus.
Nestled in the Troodos Mountains near Lagoudera, Cyprus, the Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas is a 12th-century Byzantine church renowned for its stunning, well-preserved frescoes. A UNESCO World Heritage site, it offers a serene escape into Cypriot history and art.
A brief summary to Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas
- X284+5R6, Panagia tou Araka, Lagoudera, 2753, CY
- +35799557369
- Visit website
- Monday 9 am-1 pm
- Tuesday 9 am-1 pm
- Wednesday 9 am-1 pm
- Thursday 9 am-1 pm
- Friday 9 am-1 pm
- Saturday 9 am-1 pm
- Sunday 10 am-1 pm
Local tips
- Check the opening hours in advance, as they may vary depending on the season.
- Dress modestly and maintain a quiet demeanor to respect the sacred nature of the site.
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
- Take your time to admire the frescoes; consider a guided tour for deeper insights.
- Explore the surrounding hiking trails in the Troodos Mountains to enjoy the natural beauty.
Getting There
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Driving
From Nicosia, take the A9 towards the Troodos Mountains. Follow signs to Lagoudera. The drive is approximately one hour. From Lagoudera village, follow the signs for the Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Arakas, which is about 2km away. Parking is available near the monastery. Note that the road can be narrow and winding in some parts.
-
Public Transport
From Nicosia Central Bus Station, take the bus towards Agros. Alight at Agros and transfer to a local bus to Lagoudera. From Lagoudera, it's approximately a 2km walk or taxi ride to the monastery. The bus fare from Nicosia to Lagoudera is approximately €4-€6. A taxi from Lagoudera to the monastery should cost around €5-€10.
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