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Kykkos Monastery
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Historical site
Kykkos Monastery is the wealthiest and most lavish monastery in Cyprus, situated in the northwestern Troodos Mountains at an altitude of 1,318 meters. It was founded at the end of the 11th century by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos. The monastery houses one of the three icons attributed to Saint Luke the Evangelist, which is said to depict the Virgin Mary. Due to several devastating fires, the current buildings date mostly from the 18th and 19th centuries, while the interior of the church is adorned with magnificent frescoes and mosaics in late Byzantine style. Kykkos played a pivotal role in the resistance against British colonial rule, and the first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III, served here as a novice. His tomb is located near the monastery on the mountain peak of Throni. The monastery complex also features an important museum with an extensive collection of ecclesiastical treasures, gold artifacts, and ancient manuscripts.
- Location: Cyprus
- Top sights: Kykkos Museum · Kykkos Monastery · Aspro Xylo 1010m
- Nearby: Pedoulas (10 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 11 | 12 | 14 | 17 | 20 | 24 | 27 | 27 | 25 | 22 | 17 | 13 |
| Rain mm | 89 | 55 | 33 | 18 | 13 | 5 | 2 | 3 | 10 | 27 | 43 | 92 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
Kykkos Monastery is open to visitors year-round; the courtyard and the church are accessible, with the iconostasis being particularly memorable. Entry to the church is allowed for both genders, but modest dress is expected.
Typical hours
Visiting hours follow the monastic schedule: typically 10 AM to 4 PM, with a closure during lunchtime. It is best to check locally or on the official website for exact times.
Photography
Photography is allowed in the courtyard and outside areas. Inside the church, it is usually prohibited to preserve the sacred atmosphere - it is worth asking for permission.
Time needed
A visit to the monastery takes about an hour, or 1.5 hours if you include the museum. The remarkable view of the Troodos Mountains encourages you to linger.
Combine with
Kykkos is located in the Troodos Mountains and can be combined with a hike in the area or a visit to the village of Pedoulas. Nearby monasteries like Chrysorrogiatissa are also worth a trip.
Getting there
The best way to get there is by car via winding mountain roads. From Limassol it takes about an hour; ample parking is available at the monastery.
Insider tip
Visit the monastery in the morning to beat the tour buses. Bring a jacket as it can be cool in the Troodos Mountains even in summer.
Geography
Facts
- The monastery was founded around the year 1092.
- It houses a silver-covered miraculous icon of the Virgin Mary.
- Archbishop Makarios III became a novice here in 1926.
- The monastery is located at an altitude of 1,318 meters.
- The complex was rebuilt after fires in 1365 and 1541.
- The on-site museum was officially opened in 1995.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Kykkos Monastery (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
What is the most valuable treasure of Kykkos?
An icon of the Virgin Mary, attributed to the Apostle Luke.
Can you see the icon?
The icon is almost completely covered in silver and is never fully unveiled.
What is the dress code?
Shoulders and knees must be covered. Loaner robes are available at the entrance.
Where exactly is the monastery located?
High in the Troodos Mountains at an altitude of about 1318 meters.
Is there a museum in the monastery?
Yes, there is a very grand museum with ecclesiastical art treasures.
Kykkos Monastery: where is it located?
Kykkos Monastery is located in Cyprus.
Kykkos Monastery: what is there to see?
Highlights include Kykkos Museum, Kykkos Monastery, Aspro Xylo 1010m.
Kykkos Monastery: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is May, Jun, Oct.
Kykkos Monastery: why is it worth visiting?
Kykkos Monastery is the wealthiest and most lavish monastery in Cyprus, situated in the northwestern Troodos Mountains at an altitude of 1,318 meters.
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