Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Kykkos - Churches Monasteries in Nicosia District, Cyprus

    Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Kykkos

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    Tsakistra • Nicosia District • Troodos Mountain

    About This Location

    The Holy Monastery of the Virgin Mary of Kykkos, or simply Kykkos Monastery, is one of the most renowned and wealthiest monasteries in Cyprus. It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and stands majestically in the Troodos Mountains at an altitude of about 1,200 meters. Founded around the end of the 11th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, the monastery is famous for its impressive Byzantine architecture, rich history, and spiritual significance.

    The monastery houses one of only three surviving icons attributed to the Apostle Luke, depicting the Virgin Mary holding the infant Jesus. This sacred icon, believed to possess miraculous powers, is covered in silver gilt and kept behind a protective veil. The complex itself is adorned with intricate mosaics, frescoes, and golden decorations that tell biblical stories, showcasing the artistic excellence of Byzantine craftsmanship. Visitors are struck by the blend of deep spirituality and visual beauty that fills every corner of the site.

    Kykkos Monastery also played an important role in Cypriot history, particularly during the national struggles for independence. The first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III, began his monastic life here, and his tomb is located nearby in the same mountainous region. Today, Kykkos remains a major pilgrimage site and a key cultural and religious landmark attracting visitors from all over the world.

    ✨ Why It's Special

    • Sacred icon of the Virgin Mary painted by Apostle Luke
    • Stunning Byzantine mosaics and frescoes
    • Role in Cypriot independence and religious history
    • Burial site of Archbishop Makarios III nearby
    • Breathtaking mountain setting and panoramic views

    Getting here by bus

    • Kykkosabout 100 m awayNPT (Nicosia)

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    • Kikkos Parkingabout 250 m awayNPT (Nicosia)

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    Scheduled times in Cyprus local time, from the Cyprus National Access Point (CC BY 4.0). Timetables and routes can change — check with the operator before travelling.

    🗺️ Other Sights Nearby

    Can be found in Tsakistra

    Tomb of Archbishop Makarios III

    The Tomb of Archbishop Makarios III lies on Throni Hill, just above the Kykkos Monastery in the Troodos Mountains. Surrounded by dense pine forests and the cool mountain air, this peaceful site is where the first President of the Republic of Cyprus and revered national figure chose to be buried. The location holds deep emotional and histo

    Can be found in Tsakistra

    Makarios Statue

    The Makarios Statue stands proudly on the Throni Hill, overlooking the pine-covered mountains near Kykkos Monastery in the Troodos range. This imposing bronze monument honors Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of the Republic of Cyprus, who was not only a religious leader but also a national figure who played a pivotal role in t

    Can be found in Tsakistra

    Throni Shrine

    The Throni Shrine, also known as the Throni of Panagia, is a revered site located just a short drive above the Kykkos Monastery, at an altitude of approximately 1,450 meters in the Troodos Mountains. Surrounded by dense pine forests and panoramic mountain views, this sacred spot is where the first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios

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