Kykkos Monastery

Founded around the end of the 11th century by the Byzantine emperor Alexios I Komnenos, this Greek Orthodox monastery is recognized as a wealthy and lavish religious institution. The site sits at an altitude of 1318 metres on a mountain peak. While no remains of the original structure exist due to multiple fires throughout history, the foundation remains a significant center of religious and cultural heritage.

The monastery is dedicated to the Virgin Mary and houses a highly revered, miracle-working icon of the Panagia Eleousa. This sacred object is traditionally attributed to the Apostle Luke. The complex features intricate Byzantine architecture and serves as a major site of worship.

An on-site museum preserves a vast collection of antiquities, including ancient icons, manuscripts, and various ecclesiastical relics. Archbishop Makarios III, who served as the first president of the country, began his religious career here as a monk in 1926. Following his death in 1977, he was buried at a site located approximately 3 km from the main monastery grounds.