Cyprus 365
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Cyprus 365
Wealthy Orthodox monastery in the Troodos
Kykkos Monastery stands high on the northwest side of the Troodos mountains, reached by a winding road through pine forest. Founded at the end of the 11th century with the patronage of the Byzantine emperor Alexios I Komnenos, it is one of the wealthiest and most influential Orthodox monasteries in Cyprus and remains an active religious centre.
The monastery is famous for its lavish decoration. Gilded mosaics, frescoes and icons line the courtyards and the church, and a carved gilt iconostasis dominates the main sanctuary. Its most revered possession is an icon of the Virgin Mary, traditionally attributed to Saint Luke and kept covered in a silver case. An on-site museum holds manuscripts, vestments and religious treasures.
Kykkos is a working monastery, so modest dress is expected, with shoulders and knees covered. It is not one of the UNESCO-listed Painted Churches of the Troodos, but it is among the most visited monasteries on the island. The drive can be combined with the wine village of Omodos and the high peak of Mount Olympus.
Bring a light layer, as the mountain air is cooler than the coast, dress modestly for the church, and set aside time to see the museum as well as the courtyards.
No. Kykkos is not one of the UNESCO-listed Painted Churches of the Troodos. It is, however, one of the wealthiest and most visited Orthodox monasteries in Cyprus, founded at the end of the 11th century.
Modest dress is required, with shoulders and knees covered, because it is an active place of worship. Wraps are sometimes available at the entrance, but it is easier to arrive dressed appropriately.
The monastery's most revered possession is an icon of the Virgin Mary, traditionally attributed to Saint Luke. It is kept covered in a silver case and is central to the monastery's reputation and pilgrimage.
Kykkos sits high on the northwest side of the Troodos mountains, reached by a long, winding forest road. Allow time for the drive and combine it with other Troodos stops such as Omodos village.
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