The buildings in the monastery complex date back to different periods, as they have been reconstructed over the years whereas the current appearance of the monastery dates back to its reconstruction in 1831.

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One of the most prominent and important monasteries in Cyprus is Kykkos Monastery that is located in the Troodos Mountains at an altitude of 1,318 m. The monastery was founded at the end of the 11th century by Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos (1081-1118) and was repeatedly set on fire in the past. The monastery is famous for the miraculous icon of the Virgin Eleousa of Kykkos (Most Merciful Virgin Mary) that was painted by Apostle Luke himself and that has survived the flames of fires over the years. The first President of Cyprus, Archbishop Makarios III, who united the religious and secular power, began his church career in this place as a monk in 1926 and his grave is located 3 km west of Kykkos.

Photos by Polina Spartyanova