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Holy Monastery of Panagia Machaira: A Spiritual Sanctuary

Discover the spiritual beauty of Cyprus at the Holy Monastery of Panagia Machaira, a historic sanctuary nestled in the Troodos Mountains.

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Nestled in the Troodos Mountains, the Holy Monastery of Panagia Machaira is a beacon of faith and history in Cyprus. Founded in the 12th century, this Orthodox Christian monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and houses a miraculous icon believed to have been painted by the Apostle Luke. Visitors can explore the monastery's stunning architecture, religious artifacts, and serene surroundings.

A brief summary to Holy Monastery of Panagia Machaira

  • Monday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Tuesday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Thursday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Friday 9:30 am-6 pm
  • Saturday 6:30 am-6 pm
  • Sunday 6:30 am-6 pm

Local tips

  • Visit early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
  • Dress modestly, covering shoulders and knees, as this is a place of worship.
  • Explore the surrounding hiking trails for stunning views of the Cypriot landscape.
  • Check the schedule for religious services to experience the local traditions.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Nicosia, head to the main bus station at 1, Agiou Nikolaou Street. Take bus number 161 towards Troodos. The bus will drop you off near the entrance to the Troodos mountains. From the bus stop, it is approximately a 20-minute walk to the monastery, following the signs. Bus fare is approximately €17-€23.

  • Taxi

    Taxis are readily available in Nicosia. A taxi ride to Machairas Monastery will take approximately 40-50 minutes. The cost is estimated to be €50-€65. You can also book a round trip from Nicosia to Machairas Monastery with a taxi for around €200.

  • Driving

    The most convenient way to reach the monastery is by car. Follow road signs and GPS directions to Machairas Monastery. The drive from Nicosia takes approximately 48 minutes. Be cautious as the road leading to the monastery can be narrow and winding. Parking is available at the monastery. Driving cost is approximately €7-€9.

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Discover more about Holy Monastery of Panagia Machaira

The Holy Monastery of Panagia Machaira, also known as Machairas Monastery, is located approximately 40 km from Nicosia, in the heart of the Machairas Mountains. Perched at an altitude of 870 meters, the monastery overlooks the valley, offering breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape. According to legend, the monastery's history began in the 8th or 9th century when an unknown hermit secretly brought an icon of the Virgin Mary to Cyprus during the iconoclasm. The icon remained hidden in a cave until 1145 when two hermits, Neophytos and Ignatius, discovered it. To reach the icon, they had to cut through thick bushes with a knife, giving the icon the name "Machairotissa," derived from the Greek word for knife. The monastery was founded in the 12th century, with Emperor Manuel I Komnenos providing financial assistance and granting ownership of the entire mountain to the monastery. Over the centuries, the monastery has faced numerous challenges, including fires in 1530 and 1892, but it has always been rebuilt. The architecture of the monastery reflects Byzantine influences, with modifications and expansions from various periods. The main church features a simple yet elegant design, housing the venerated icon of the Virgin Mary. The interior is adorned with religious icons, chandeliers, stone floors, and wall frescoes. Today, the monastery is home to a small community of monks who live through agriculture and donations. Visitors can explore the monastery's museum, which showcases exhibits and photographs from the battle of Machairas and Grigoris Afxentiou, a hero of the EOKA struggle. The monastery celebrates the Virgin Mary on November 21st.

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