CYPRUS: KYKKOS MONASTERY

In the heart of the Troodos mountain region stands the famous Kykkos Monastery.

Located at an altitude of 4,330 feet (1,320 meters), isolated and surrounded by pine forests, it offers a peaceful setting conducive to meditation.

The Orthodox Monastery of Kykkos 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 there starting in 1926.

Although the Kykkos Monastery is far from the tourist cities, it attracts tens of thousands of visitors each year.

The entrance to the monastery, both grand and welcoming, reflects the historical and spiritual significance of this revered site in Cyprus.

The monastery was founded around the end of the 11th century by Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos.

It is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and is closely associated with an icon of the Virgin, supposedly painted by the Apostle Luke.

This icon, covered in gilded silver, is a venerated artifact that remains at the monastery but is never displayed to the public.

However, it is possible to admire the richly decorated interior of the church.

Let’s step outside; the monastery’s inner courtyard features richly decorated arcades.

These arcades, with their mosaics, are truly the jewel of this monastery.

They allow visitors to admire...

Over here, a mosaic depicting the Burning Bush.

Over there, a mosaic of Jesus the Shepherd – Parable of the Lost Sheep.

...a mosaic depicting the Parable of the Great Banquet.

...a mosaic depicting Noah's Ark.

Or yet, a mosaic depicting Jacob's Ladder or the Stairway to God.

Furthermore, beyond the wall mosaics, by looking up, one can admire ceilings adorned with paintings of exceptional richness.

1.2 miles (2 kilometers) above the Kykkos Monastery lies the final resting place of Archbishop Makarios III, the first president of Cyprus.

There is a memorial, a 31-foot (9.5-meter) statue of Makarios III, and his tomb.

The statue of the former and first Cypriot president is truly impressive.

Nicknamed "The Colossus" or "Big Mak," it was created by Cypriot sculptor Nikolaos Kotziamanis and installed in 1987.

Initially placed in the courtyard of the archbishopric in Nicosia, it was moved here in 2008.

In contrast, the tomb of Makarios III itself is relatively modest, reflecting the simplicity of this man of faith’s lifestyle, despite his immense influence as the first president of Cyprus.

All photos of Kykkos Monastery © 1996 - 2013 by Richard Soberka