CYPRUS: KYKKOS MONASTERY
In the heart of the mountainous Troodos region, stands the famous Kykkos Monastery at an altitude of about 1,318 meters.
Surrounded by pine forests and rugged landscapes, it offers stunning views and a tranquil setting.
The Kykkos Orthodox Monastery is the most famous in Cyprus, and for good reason:
Archbishop Makarios III, the first President of Cyprus and father of the nation, spent part of his life here since 1926.
Even though Kykkos Monastery is quite remote, tucked away in the mountains, it remains a tourist hotspot that attracts tens of thousands of visitors every year.
The entrance to Kykkos Monastery is both grand and welcoming, reflecting the historical and spiritual significance of this revered site in Cyprus.
The monastery was founded around the end of the 11th century by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos.
The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary, and it has a strong connection to an icon of the Virgin allegedly painted by the Apostle Luke.
This icon, covered in silver gilt, is a revered artifact that remains in the monastery but is never displayed to the public.
However, it is possible to admire the richly decorated interior of the church.
The inner courtyard of the monastery features lavishly decorated arcades.
These arcades are truly the jewel of this monastery, as they feature incredibly beautiful mosaics, depicting among other things..."
Mosaic depicting the Burning Bush
Mosaic of Jesus the Shepherd - Parable of the Lost Sheep.
Mosaic depicting the Parable of the Great Supper.
Mosaic depicting Noah's Ark.
Mosaic depicting Jacob's Ladder or the Stairway to God.
Moreover, beyond the wall mosaics, when you look up, you can see ceilings adorned with paintings of exceptional richness.
Two kilometres up from Kykkos Monastery, one can find the final resting place of Archbishop Makarios III, the First President of Cyprus, which includes a memorial, a huge statue, and his tomb.
The statue of the former and first Cypriot president is really impressive.
In contrast, his tomb is relatively modest, reflecting the simplicity of Makarios's own lifestyle despite his profound influence as both a religious leader and the first President of Cyprus.
All photos of Paphos © 1996 - 2013 by Richard Soberka