Background

Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas of the Cats: A Feline-Infested Sanctuary

Discover a unique Cyprus monastery where history, spirituality, and feline charm intertwine. A haven for cat lovers and history enthusiasts alike.

3.9

The Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas of the Cats, near Akrotiri Salt Lake, is one of Cyprus's oldest monasteries, dating back to the 4th century. Legend says St. Helena brought cats to combat a snake infestation. Today, it's home to a sisterhood of nuns and over 100 cats, offering a unique blend of history, spirituality, and feline charm.

A brief summary to Holy Monastery of St Nicholas of the Cats

  • Akrotiri, GB
  • Monday 8 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 8 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 8 am-5 pm
  • Friday 8 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • Bring wet cat food or treats to feed the friendly feline residents.
  • Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for a quieter experience and better lighting for photography.
  • Dress modestly as a sign of respect when entering the monastery.
  • Take time to explore the gardens and enjoy the views of the surrounding landscape.
widget icon

Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Limassol, take the Line 24 bus from EMEL Bus Station Leontiou A´ to Akrotiri Community Board. The bus departs hourly, and the journey takes approximately 34 minutes. From the Akrotiri Community Board, it is a short walk to the monastery. A single fare is approximately €2-€3.

  • Taxi

    From Limassol, a taxi to the Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas of the Cats takes approximately 20-30 minutes. Taxi fares in Akrotiri are calculated based on distance, with potential additional charges depending on the company. A typical taxi ride from Limassol to Akrotiri may cost between €25-€40. Confirm the fare with the driver before starting your journey.

Unlock the Best of Holy Monastery of St Nicholas of the Cats

Buy tickets

    No tickets available

Book tours with entry

    No tours available

Book tours without entry

    No tours available

Discover more about Holy Monastery of St Nicholas of the Cats

Nestled near the Akrotiri Salt Lake on the Akrotiri Peninsula, the Holy Monastery of St. Nicholas of the Cats (Agios Nikolaos ton Gaton) is a unique and historically rich site. Founded in 327 AD, the monastery is one of the oldest in Cyprus, with its origins intertwined with the legend of St. Helena, mother of Constantine the Great. According to tradition, St. Helena commissioned the monastery's construction and brought hundreds of cats from Egypt and Palestine to combat a severe snake infestation that plagued the island. The cats were trained to respond to bells, one for feeding and another for hunting snakes, and they played a crucial role in eradicating the reptiles, allowing the monastery to be completed. Over the centuries, the monastery became known as St. Nicholas of the Cats, and the felines became an integral part of its identity. The original building has been destroyed and rebuilt several times, but the tradition of housing cats has endured. Today, the monastery is managed by a sisterhood of nuns who care for over 100 cats. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the Byzantine and Gothic architecture, and interact with the friendly felines. The monastery also houses a museum displaying artifacts and religious relics, offering insights into its long history. The surrounding landscape provides a serene backdrop for reflection and appreciation of the natural beauty of the Akrotiri Peninsula. The monastery is dedicated to Saint Nicholas, the patron saint of fishermen, sailors, and travelers.

Popular Experiences near Holy Monastery of St Nicholas of the Cats

Popular Hotels near Holy Monastery of St Nicholas of the Cats

Select Currency