Kykkos Monastery sits on a mountain peak at around 1,318 metres in the Marathasa Valley of the Troodos range, about thirteen kilometres from the village of Pedoulas, and it is the most visited monastery on the island. According to tradition, the hermit Isaiah healed the daughter of the Byzantine emperor Alexios I Komnenos, and the grateful emperor sent a sacred icon and funds to build a monastery. The buildings have burned several times, and none of the original structure survives, so what you see is a later, richly decorated complex of courtyards, painted cloisters and gilded mosaics. The monastery holds one of three icons attributed to Saint Luke the Evangelist, covered in silver gilt and displayed in a shrine in front of the iconostasis. There is also a museum on the grounds, and the monastery has a historical link to the modern island: Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of independent Cyprus, served here as a novice. Entry is free, according to the Cyprus tourism organisation. The journey is part of the experience, a long winding drive up through pine forest, and the cool, thin air at the top is a welcome change from the coast in summer. In winter it is genuinely cold up here, and snow is possible in the higher Troodos, so dress for the mountains rather than the beach and check road conditions before you set out.
How it works
Kykkos is reached by road from the Troodos villages, and most visitors come on a day trip from Paphos or Limassol by car or on an organised day excursion that also visits mountain villages. There is no ticket for the monastery itself. Check opening arrangements on the day, since the museum and the monastery have their own hours, and services may restrict access to the church.
What to expect
A large, active religious complex with painted courtyards, a church filled with gold and icons, and a quiet monastic atmosphere. Visitors are asked to dress modestly, with covered shoulders and knees, and to speak quietly. The icon of Saint Luke is kept in a shrine and is not displayed openly, as is traditional. Allow time for the museum, which holds church treasures and icons.
Making the most of it
Start early, take layers whatever the season, and combine the monastery with a stop in a Troodos village such as Pedoulas for lunch. In winter, check the weather forecast and road conditions, as mountain roads can be slippery. Drivers should allow generous time for the winding approach, and anyone prone to car sickness may want to sit in the front. The best seasons are spring and autumn.
What to expect
The experience
A self-guided visit to a working monastery in the mountains, with painted courtyards, a church and a museum.
Best time
Spring and autumn are the most comfortable; winter is cold and can bring snow.
How long
One to two hours on site, plus the long drive up from the coast.
Tips
Dress modestly, bring layers for the altitude and check road conditions in winter.
Quick picks
- Best for
- Travellers interested in Byzantine art and Cypriot religious life, or anyone who wants a mountain day out.
- Families
- A long drive for small children, but the setting is spectacular and entry is free.
- Couples
- A quiet, scenic outing, ideal combined with lunch in a Troodos village.
- Pair with
- The Troodos mountains day trip or a stop at a wine village.
- Time needed
- A full day from Paphos or Limassol including the drive.
Good questions
Is there an entry fee?+
The Cyprus tourism organisation says entry is free. The museum has its own arrangements, so check locally.
How high is Kykkos Monastery?+
It stands on a mountain peak at about 1,318 metres in the Marathasa Valley of the Troodos mountains.
What is it famous for?+
It holds one of three icons attributed to Saint Luke the Evangelist, and Archbishop Makarios III served here as a novice.
Is it open in winter?+
Yes, but the mountains are cold and snow is possible, so check road and weather conditions before you drive up.
What should I wear?+
Modest clothing with shoulders and knees covered, plus warm layers for the altitude.
