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Kykkos Monastery

Plizio editorial teamUpdated: Jun 2026Data Sources

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Kykkos Monastery (Panagia tou Kykkou), perched at 1318 meters in the Marathasa region of the Troodos Mountains, is the most culturally and spiritually significant monastery in Cyprus. Founded at the end of the 11th century by Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos, it is famous for its immense wealth and opulence. The monastery's most sacred treasure is an icon of the Virgin Mary, believed to have been painted by Apostle Luke himself. Out of deep respect, the icon is shielded by a silver-gilt cover and is never viewed directly by anyone. The monastery complex is visually remarkable, featuring expansive courtyards and arched corridors decorated with animated modern mosaics and frescoes depicting biblical narratives. Its museum is widely regarded as the finest on the island, housing a priceless collection of ecclesiastical art, including ancient manuscripts, ornate vestments, and liturgical vessels crafted from gold and silver. Despite suffering several fires throughout its history, the monastery has always been restored to its former glory. Nearby, on the hilltop of Throni, lies the tomb of Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of Cyprus, who started his clerical career here as a novice. The site has majestic views across the mountain ranges. Kykkos is a major pilgrimage destination and a hub for traditional products; the monastery shop sells high-quality Zivania, honey, and herbal teas produced by the monks. A visit to Kykkos is not just a religious experience but a journey into the heart of Cypriot identity and Byzantine heritage.

Location: Cyprus
Top sights: Kykkos Monastery · Kykkos Museum · 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

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Visiting

The monastery is open to visitors. The courtyard and church interior are accessible; the treasury may have limited access.

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Typical hours

Typically open from morning until late afternoon. Exact hours vary by season; checking before your visit is advisable.

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Photography

Photography is allowed in the courtyard and grounds. Inside the church, photography is usually not permitted.

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Time needed

Allow about 1.5 to 2 hours to tour the monastery grounds, museum, and church.

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Combine with

Combine the visit with a trip to the Troödos mountains or the nearby village of Pedoulas.

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Getting there

Accessible by car from Nicosia or Limassol (about 1 hour). Buses are available but less frequent.

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Insider tip

Visit the monastery early in the morning to avoid crowds and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.

Geography

Coordinates

34.98387, 32.74108

Facts

Elevation: 1318 meters
Founded in the 11th century
Houses Apostle Luke's icon
Wealthiest Cypriot monastery
Renowned ecclesiastical museum
Burial site of Makarios III
Vibrant modern mosaics
Top pilgrimage site in Cyprus

Explore nearby

Notable places around

Kykkos Monastery<1 km · WExplore →

Paphos Forest Gorge3 km · SExplore →

Pafos Forest Wildlife6 km · SWExplore →

Cedar Valley7 km · SWExplore →

Church of Archangelos Michael Pedoulas9 km · NExplore →

Agios Ioannis Lampadistis Monastery10 km · NExplore →

Stavros tis Psokas Forest Area10 km · SExplore →

Mouflon Enclosure Stavros tis Psokas10 km · SExplore →

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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Overnight stops

Vehicle

Only stops with (optional): 💧 Water ♻️ Disposal 🔌 Power 🚻 Toilets 🚿 Shower

Sights in the town Kykkos Monastery (3)

Kykkos Monastery

Famous 11th-century monastery in the Troodos Mountains, richly decorated.

🌐 kykkos.org.cy🕒 Nov-May Mo-Su 10:00-16:00; Jun-Oct Mo-Su 10:00-18:00; Jan 1 🆓

Kykkos Museum 🏛 museum

Museum within the monastery complex, displaying icons, manuscripts and artifacts.

🕒 Mo-Su 10:00-18:00💶

Aspro Xylo 1010m

Viewpoint at 1010 m elevation, overlooking the monastery and mountains.

Sights nearby

Frequently asked questions

When is Kykkos Monastery open?

Usually daily from 10:00 to 16:00 or 18:00, depending on the season.

Is there a dress code?

Yes, shoulders and knees must be covered; wraps are often provided at the entrance.

Is photography allowed inside the monastery?

In the outer courtyards yes, but it is mostly forbidden inside the church and museum.

What is the most important relic in the monastery?

An icon of the Virgin Mary, allegedly painted by the Apostle Luke.

Is there an entry fee?

Entry to the monastery is free, but the museum charges a small fee.

Kykkos Monastery: where is it located?

Kykkos Monastery is located in Cyprus.

Kykkos Monastery: what is there to see?

Highlights include Kykkos Monastery, Kykkos Museum, 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 (Panagia tou Kykkou), perched at 1318 meters in the Marathasa region of the Troodos Mountains, is the most culturally and spiritually significant monastery in Cyprus.

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Kykkos Monastery

Best time to visit & climate