Overview:

: Ayia Varvara Monastery is an Eastern Orthodox monastery situated in the Nicosia district of Cyprus. It is located on the south western slopes of the Troödos Mountain range at an altitude of 990 metres. It is believed to have been founded in the 5th century, and is claimed to be the oldest continually active monastery on the entire island. Ayia Varvara is dedicated to an early Christian saint and martyr by the name of Varys (or Barr). The interior of the monastery is quite simple with a handful of iconographies greeting visitors. It is also home to a library that features historic ecclesiastical books and manuscripts. Additionally, visitors will find a small chapel dedicated to St Varys located near the main corridor. Ayia Varvara Monastery attracts many visitors each year due to its significant religious and cultural history. Visitors can take part in tours of the site and enjoy the stunning views from its outdoor patios. There are also a few simple shops and eateries located nearby. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cyprus
Prominent Features:

1. Unique architectural style: The monastery is built in a unique architectural style that combines Byzantine, early Christian and Gothic elements. 2. Monumental entrance gates: Its entrance gates are monumental and are crowned by a dome, the only one of its kind in Cyprus. 3. Extensive frescoes: The monastery church is adorned with impressive and wide-ranging frescoes, giving it a special spiritual and artistic atmosphere. 4. Rich History: Ayia Varvara Monastery was established in the mid 4th century and was listed in the UNESCO World Heritage List in 1998. 5. Picturesque grounds: The monastery is set in lush and picturesque grounds, surrounded by pine and cypress trees. This national monument of Cyprus portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Ayia Varvara Monastery, also known as the Monastery of St. Varvara the Martyr, is an Eastern Orthodox monastery located in the village of Ayia Varvara, Cyprus. The monastery has a long and illustrious history, with records of its existence dating as far back as the 10th century. Initially the monastery was located in an old fort, which was the site of a fierce battle between the Byzantines and the Arabs in 941 A.D. During this battle the monastery was destroyed and the relics of the Holy Martyr Varvara were lost. After this a new monastery was built and dedicated to St. Varvara but by the 11th century it had fallen into disrepair due to continued raids by pirates. In the 12th century a new church was built and the monastery was officially re-dedicated in the name of St. Varvara in 1182 A.D. During that time, the monastery was under the care of the Karpassos Church of Cyprus, which appointed a priest to reside at the monastery. This priest was entrusted with the duty of caring for the relics of St. Varvara, which had since been recovered. During the 14th century Ayia Varvara Monastery became the seat of the Bishop of Ayia Varvara, and was granted papal protection by Pope Gregory XI. This protection enabled the monastery to remain a safe haven during the numerous wars that plagued the region. In the 16th century, the monastery underwent a period of reconstruction and expansion. During this time, a new church was built, a library was established, and improvements were made to the living quarters and other facilities. In the 18th century, the Monastery was damaged by an earthquake and had to be reconstructed once more. Despite this, the Monastery remained a stronghold for the Eastern Orthodox Church, and even today it continues to be a place of spirituality and devotion. You must visit one of these historical places in Cyprus on your Cyprus tour

Interesting facts:

1. Ayia Varvara Monastery is one of the oldest monasteries on the island of Cyprus. The monastery was first built in early Byzantine times and has been in use ever since. 2. It is located in the village of Varvara in Limassol District and overlooks the Mediterranean Sea. 3. The monastery is dedicated to Saint Barbara, the fourth century Christian martyr. 4. The main church of the monastery was built in the 13th century and the interior is filled with frescoes that date back to the 16th century. 5. The courtyard of the monastery is decorated with a traditional mosaic depicting the stories of Saint Barbara. 6. The monastery also houses a small museum full of artifacts found in the area, including coins, icons, crucifixes, and other priceless items. 7. According to legend, the monastery was founded by a group of foreign monks in the 11th century. 8. Ayia Varvara Monastery is open to the public daily, with the exception of public holidays. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cyprus with your friends and family.