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Panagia tou Moutoulla: A Byzantine Gem

Discover the exquisite Byzantine artistry of Panagia tou Moutoulla, a UNESCO World Heritage Site nestled in the Troodos Mountains of Cyprus.

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Nestled in the Troodos Mountains, Panagia tou Moutoulla is a tiny, UNESCO-listed church dating back to 1280. Its well-preserved frescoes and traditional architecture offer a glimpse into Cyprus's rich Byzantine past.

A brief summary to Panagia tou Moutoulla

  • Monday 8 am-3 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-3 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-3 pm
  • Friday 8 am-3 pm
  • Saturday 9 am-3 pm
  • Sunday 9 am-3 pm

Local tips

  • Contact Mrs. Eleni Constantinidou in advance to arrange a visit, especially if you plan to arrive outside the regular opening hours.
  • Combine your visit with a walk around Moutoullas village, known for its traditional wood carvings.
  • The church is located on a hill, offering scenic views of the surrounding Marathasa Valley.
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Getting There

  • Driving

    From Nicosia, take the A9 highway towards Troodos Mountains. Follow signs to Moutoullas. The drive is approximately 1.5-2 hours. Once in Moutoullas, follow local road signs to the church. Parking is available near the church.

  • Public Transport

    Take a bus from Nicosia to the Troodos area. From Troodos, transfer to a local bus heading to Moutoullas. Check the bus schedules in advance as services may be limited. From the Moutoullas bus stop, the church is about a 15-minute walk. Bus fare from Nicosia to Troodos area is approximately €5-€8. Local bus from Troodos to Moutoullas is approximately €2-€3.

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Discover more about Panagia tou Moutoulla

Panagia tou Moutoulla, located in the village of Moutoullas in the Marathasa Valley, is a significant cultural and religious landmark. This small, single-aisled chapel, dating back to 1280, is one of the earliest examples of its kind and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The church was built and decorated with frescoes thanks to donations from Ioannis of Moutoullas and his wife, Irene, who are depicted holding a model of the church in one of the frescoes. It is believed that the church may have initially served as a private chapel. The church's architecture features a steep-pitched timber roof, typical of the Troodos region. A narthex was added in the early 16th century, extending to the west and north sides. The interior is adorned with frescoes dating back to 1280, making them the only precisely dated series of 13th-century wall paintings surviving in Cyprus. The style and iconography of the paintings blend Byzantine traditions with Western art influences. The exterior of the north wall features a depiction of the Last Judgement, added in the late 15th or early 16th century. Visiting Panagia tou Moutoulla offers a serene and intimate experience. The church is wheelchair accessible and parking is available. To arrange a visit, especially outside of regular hours, it's recommended to contact Mrs. Eleni Constantinidou. The village of Moutoullas is also known for its traditional wood carvings.

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