Background

Panagia Amirous Monastery: A Cypriot Sanctuary

Discover the serene beauty and spiritual heritage of this Cypriot monastery, with its miraculous history and breathtaking views.

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Nestled in the foothills of the Kakomallis mountain near Mathikoloni, the Panagia Amirous Monastery offers a serene escape with stunning views and a rich history dating back to the 12th century. Originally a male monastery, it was abandoned in the late 18th century and later revived 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. Parking is available near the monastery. Be aware that the roads leading to the monastery can be narrow and winding in places.

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Discover more about Panagia Amirous Monastery

The Panagia Amirous Monastery, a few kilometers from Mathikoloni in the Limassol district, is a captivating destination blending history, spirituality, and natural beauty. Perched on the Kakomallis mountain foothills, it offers breathtaking views stretching across the 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. The daughter saw a light emanating from a mountain and, upon following it, discovered a spring flowing from a rock. At the spring's base, they found an icon of the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus. The daughter washed her face with the water and miraculously regained her sight. In gratitude, the Emir commissioned a small church, which evolved into the Panagia Amirous Monastery. Some believe the monastery's name derives from this Emir, while others suggest it comes from a tenant named Amira. The monastery flourished, becoming a significant religious center. Historical records indicate that it was initially a male monastery, housing over a hundred monks during its peak in the 17th century. It possessed considerable wealth, owning extensive lands. However, like many Christian monasteries during the Ottoman Empire, Panagia Amirous declined and was abandoned in the late 18th century. In 1997, a woman named Maria spearheaded the monastery's restoration. Through her efforts, it was revived and reopened as a female monastic community dedicated to Zoodochos Pigi. Today, a small group of nuns resides there, continuing its spiritual traditions. The monastery celebrates on Easter Friday and also has a new church dedicated to Saint Catherine. The icon screen is a 17th-century, woodcut and gold-plated piece of excellent artistry, and the icons date back to the 15th-17th century. Visitors can explore the grounds, admire the Byzantine architecture, and relax in the peaceful gardens. The main church houses a revered icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to possess miraculous properties.

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