Kykkos Monastery, Troodos : Interesting Facts, Information & Travel Guide

Welcome and thank you for visiting our blog about Kykkos Monastery in Troodos! This historic monastery is a very important part of the culture and history of Cyprus. Within this blog we will take a closer look at this unique and special place. You will learn about the interesting facts and information about the monastery as well as find out some helpful travel tips and advice, if you’re looking to visit this incredible structure. We’ll also explore the rich history of Kykkos Monastery and its incredible importance to the region. So, let’s begin our journey!

Interesting Facts About Kykkos Monastery, Troodos

1. Kykkos monastery is the highest and wealthiest monastery in Cyprus and the whole of the Eastern Orthodox world. It was founded in the late 11th century.

2. Its impressive library holds over 7,000 manuscripts and 45,000 books, making it one of the world’s largest collections of Byzantine manuscripts.

3. It is home to several rare Byzantine icons, considered amongst the finest in the world. The most famous of these is the iconic 12th century icon of the Virgin Mary, said to have been painted by the Apostle Luke himself.

4. Kykkos Monastery is a place of pilgrimage and is open to visitors year-round.

5. It is a favorite destination for nature lovers, with an abundance of wildlife and stunning views from its mountainside location.

6. The monastery is also home to a small museum displaying various religious artifacts, including examples of Byzantine and Cypriot artwork.

7. The Monastery is the main attraction around the Troodos region. It serves as the reference point on the Troodos Plateau for locals to establish location and directions.

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History & Information About Kykkos Monastery, Troodos

The Kykkos Monastery (Greek: Μονή Κύκκου, Moni Kykkou) is located approximately 20km west of Nicosia in the Troodos Mountains in Cyprus. The monastery is one of the largest and richest in Cyprus and is home to several important artifacts, including an icon of Virgin Mary which is said to have been made in the year 1100.

The Kykkos Monastery dates back to the 11th century and is an important symbol of the Orthodox faith in Cyprus. It was originally founded by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos in the 11th century, when he bestowed the monastery with part of his own fortune.

In later centuries, Kykkos became home to the ruling archbishops of the Greek Cypriot Orthodox Church, and the monastery remains an important religious center today. The monastery acquired numerous valuable artifacts and icons throughout its history, and these can be seen in the Museum of Byzantine Art housed within Kykkos.

The most renowned of the icons is the icon of the Virgin Mary, a work of art which many believe was crafted in the 11th century. It is made of a combination of 120 pearls and precious stones. Kykkos is also well known for its large library which houses rare manuscripts and publications from the Byzantine era.

Every year, the monastery holds a major religious event to celebrate the icon of the Virgin Mary, which is named the Festival of Angels. During this time, pilgrims come from all over Cyprus to visit Kykkos and pray in the presence of the holy icon. The monastery is surrounded by lush forests, and is wellknown for its picturesque views. It is a popular choice for hikers and mountain climbers seeking to explore the Troodos region.

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Travel Guide For Visiting Kykkos Monastery, Troodos

Mountains Cyprus

I. About Kykkos Monastery

Kykkos Monastery is one of the most sacred shrines in Cyprus. According to tradition, it is built here to enshrine the icon of the Virgin Mary, painted by St. Luke the Evangelist. The monastery is located in the Troodos Mountain in central Cyprus, around 20 kilometers Southwest of the town of Pedoulas. It is breathtaking in the spectacular mountain scenery. Kykkos Monastery is home to a number of Byzantine treasures and an art museum.

II. Getting There

The easiest way to get to the Kykkos Monastery is by private car. Pedoulas is the closest town and most hassle-free option for visitors traveling from abroad. From the town, take the D25 road in a southwest direction to Agios Theodoros village. From there, follow the road to old Troodos and then follow the forestry roads for winding up to the monastery.

Alternatively, you can take a bus from major cities of Cyprus such as Nicosia or Limassol to the town of Pedoulas. From there, you can hire a taxi service to Kykkos Monastery. Or you can rent a car and drive to the monastery on your own.

III. Accommodations

If you plan to stay near Kykkos Monastery, you can stay at the Monastery Guest House. It’s a quaint, rustic building with a lovely view of the monastery. There are also several hotels, guesthouses, apartments and holiday villas in and around the Troodos mountain region.

IV. Nearby Attractions

There are plenty of attractions to check out in and around the Troodos mountain region. These include the Church of the Panagia Trooditissa, which is one of the oldest Christian churches in Cyprus, Caledonia Waterfalls, and the Plátres mountain village, which is known for its traditional wooden buildings and stunning scenery. There are also plenty of secluded beaches nearby to explore.

V. Best Time to Visit

The best time to visit Kykkos Monastery is from April to October when the weather is pleasant. Summers are usually hot and dry, while winters are mild and generally snowy. Be sure to dress warmly and for sudden changes in the weather when visiting the monastery.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Kykkos Monastery, Troodos

Q: Where is the Kykkos Monastery located?

A: The Kykkos Monastery is located in the Troodos Mountains, in western Cyprus.

Q: What is the history of the Kykkos Monastery?

A: The Kykkos Monastery was founded by a Byzantine Emperor in the 11th century and is named after the famous 9th century saint, Kykkos. It is now a prominent pilgrimage centre and houses some of the oldest religious artefacts in the country.

Q: How many religious buildings are located within Kykkos Monastery?

A: Kykkos Monastery consists of several buildings including the main church, a chapel, an arcade, and a bell tower.

Q: Are visitors allowed to enter the Kykkos Monastery?

A: Visitors are not allowed to enter the monastery itself but can visit the grounds and admire its beauty as well as the numerous surrounding gardens. During Easter, visitors can join the local pilgrimage to prayer inside the monastery.

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