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Panagia Amirous Monastery: A Haven of History and Serenity

Discover a tranquil Cypriot monastery with a miraculous history, stunning views, and a serene atmosphere, nestled in the hills near Mathikoloni.

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Nestled in the foothills of the Kakomallis mountain range near Mathikoloni, Cyprus, the Panagia Amirous Monastery is a serene retreat blending history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Founded in the 12th century, it features a miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary and offers panoramic views. Restored in 1997, it now operates as a female monastic community dedicated to Zoodochos Pigi (Life-Giving Spring).

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 hiking trails, which offer 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 from Leontiou EMEL Station. Check the CyBuses website for the most up-to-date timetable, as services are infrequent. From the Mathikoloni Community Board bus stop, it's approximately a 20-minute walk (about 1.6km) to the monastery. Follow the road signs towards the monastery. The bus fare is approximately €1.50 - €2.00.

  • 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 30-40 minutes, depending on traffic. Expect to pay between €25-€40 for a one-way trip. Prices may vary depending on the time of day and the specific taxi service.

  • 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. Be aware that the roads leading to the monastery can be narrow and winding in places. Limited free parking is available near the monastery entrance.

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Discover more about Panagia Amirous Monastery

The Panagia Amirous Monastery, located a few kilometers from the villages of Apsiou and Mathikoloni in the Limassol district, is a captivating destination that blends history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Perched on the foothills of the Kakomallis mountain, the monastery offers breathtaking views that extend across the rolling landscape to the coast of Zygi. According to local tradition, the monastery's origins trace back to the 12th century. The story tells of an Emir from Syria who was traveling by sea along the coast of Amathus with his blind daughter, seeking a cure for her ailment. During their voyage, the daughter experienced a vision, seeing a light emanating from a mountain. Intrigued, they followed the light, which led them to a spring flowing from a rock. At the base of the spring, they discovered a small icon of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus. The Emir's daughter washed her face with the water from the spring, and miraculously, her sight was restored. In gratitude for this divine intervention, the Emir commissioned the construction of a small church, which later evolved into the Panagia Amirous Monastery. Over the centuries, the monastery flourished, becoming a significant religious center in the region. Historical records indicate that it was initially a male monastery, housing over a hundred monks during its peak in the 17th century. The monastery also possessed considerable wealth, owning extensive lands in the surrounding area. However, like many Christian monasteries during the Ottoman Empire, Panagia Amirous experienced a period of decline and was eventually abandoned by its monks in the late 18th century. In 1997, a remarkable woman named Maria spearheaded the restoration of the monastery. Through her tireless 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. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the Byzantine architecture, and view the revered icon of the Virgin Mary. The monastery is dedicated to Zoodohos Pigi (Life-giving Spring), celebrating on Easter Friday. The icon screen is a 17th-century, woodcut and gold-plated piece of excellent artistry. The icons date back to the 15th-17th century.

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