Background

Panagia Amirous Monastery: A Cypriot Sanctuary

Discover a tranquil Cypriot monastery with miraculous origins, stunning vistas, and a rich history dating back to the 12th century.

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Nestled in the foothills of the Kakomallis Mountains near Mathikoloni, Cyprus, the Panagia Amirous Monastery is a serene escape steeped in history and legend. Founded in the 12th century, this tranquil retreat offers stunning views and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a must-see for those seeking spiritual solace and natural beauty.

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 area, which offers 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 the most 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 entrance. 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 blending history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Perched on the Kakomallis mountain foothills, it offers breathtaking views stretching across the landscape to Zygi's coast. Local tradition dates the monastery back to the 12th century. The story tells of an Emir from Syria traveling by sea along Amathus's coast with his blind daughter, seeking a cure. During their voyage, the daughter saw a light emanating from a mountain. They followed it to a spring flowing from a rock, where they discovered a small icon of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus. The Emir's daughter washed her face with the water, and miraculously, her sight was restored. 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's from a tenant named Amira. Over the centuries, the monastery flourished, becoming a significant religious center. Historical records indicate it was initially a male monastery, housing over a hundred monks during its 17th-century peak. The monastery also possessed considerable wealth, owning extensive lands. However, like many Christian monasteries during the Ottoman Empire, Panagia Amirous declined and was abandoned in the late 18th century. In 1997, a woman named Maria spearheaded the monastery's restoration. Through her efforts, the monastery was revived and reopened as a female monastic community dedicated to Zoodochos Pigi, the 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. It is incorporated into a larger icon of the Virgin Mary dating back to the 16th century and placed in the wood-carved, gilded icon screen of the Monastery.

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