Background

Kykkos Monastery: A Spiritual and Historical Cyprus Landmark

Discover Cyprus's spiritual heart at Kykkos Monastery: a historic mountain retreat with stunning art, a sacred icon, and breathtaking Troodos views.

4.7
A question is required

Nestled in the Troodos Mountains, Kykkos Monastery is Cyprus's wealthiest and most famous monastery, founded in the late 11th century. Dedicated to the Virgin Mary, it houses a revered icon believed to be painted by Saint Luke and boasts stunning architecture, mosaics, and a rich history.

A brief summary to Kykkos Monastery

  • Monday 5:30 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 5:30 am-6 pm
  • Wednesday 5:30 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 5:30 am-6 pm
  • Friday 5:30 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 5:30 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 5:30 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Dress modestly when visiting the monastery; shawls and cover-up clothing are often provided at the entrance.
  • Visit early in the day to avoid crowds, especially during peak tourist season.
  • Explore the monastery museum to see a collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts, and other treasures.
  • Take time to admire the intricate frescoes and mosaics that adorn the monastery's interior.
  • Visit Throni, located 3km west of the monastery, to see the tomb of Archbishop Makarios III and enjoy panoramic views.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Car

    Kykkos Monastery is located in the Troodos Mountains and is accessible by car. From major cities like Nicosia, Limassol or Paphos, follow the highway towards the Troodos region. Once in the mountains, follow the signs to Kykkos Monastery. Be aware that the roads in the Troodos Mountains are winding. There is ample free parking available for cars and buses outside the monastery. Note that the roads have lots of curves and winding up and down narrow sections.

  • Public Transport

    Reaching Kykkos Monastery by public transport involves a combination of buses and possibly a taxi for the final leg. From Paphos, take the Line 637 bus towards Asprogia, then a taxi to Kykkos. From Limassol, take the Line 60 bus to a connecting point in the Troodos region, then a local bus towards Kykkos. Bus schedules can be infrequent, so check times in advance. A taxi from Asprogia to Kykkos will cost approximately €30-€45. Bus fares typically range from €2-€5 per segment.

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 Stauropegial Monastery of Kykkos, is a prominent religious and cultural site in Cyprus, located in the Marathasa Valley within the Troodos Mountains. Founded around the end of the 11th century by Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, the monastery is dedicated to Panagia, the Virgin Mary, and stands at an altitude of 1,318 meters. The monastery's history is intertwined with a tale of a hermit named Esaias and a Byzantine governor, Manuel Boutoumites. After mistreating Esaias, Boutoumites fell ill and sought forgiveness, leading to the request for the icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to be painted by Apostle Luke, to be brought from Constantinople to Cyprus. The Emperor commissioned the building of a church and monastery to house the sacred relic. Throughout its history, Kykkos Monastery has been destroyed by fire multiple times, with the current structure dating back to 1831. The monastery is known for its elaborate wood-carved iconostasis, painted icons, and frescoes. The main church has undergone several expansions, with the middle aisle dedicated to the Virgin Mary. The monastery also has a museum that displays a collection of religious artifacts, manuscripts and other treasures. Kykkos Monastery played a significant role in preserving Orthodoxy and Hellenism in Cyprus and continues to contribute to the island's religious, national, social, and economic life. The first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III, served as a monk at Kykkos and is buried nearby at Throni. Visitors can explore the monastery's museum, admire the architecture and artwork, and visit the tomb of Archbishop Makarios III. The monastery also produces Zivania spirit and other alcoholic drinks.

Popular Experiences near Kykkos Monastery

Popular Hotels near Kykkos Monastery

Select Currency