Overview:

Located near the village of Pera pedi in the Nicosia District, Machairas Monastery is one of the most important sites of early Christianity in Cyprus. Founded in the eighth century, it has hosted continuous activity since its foundation. The monastery has an important place in the history of the island and was particularly active during the Middle Ages. It served as an important study centre, hosting renowned theologians and writers, and many of its texts, such as the Synodicon of Machairas, are now considered important sources of knowledge about the Byzantine period. It also has a holy relic of the True Cross. Today, Machairas Monastery is a major cultural attraction, offering visitors a unique insight into the spiritual history of the island. As well as its important religious collections, it features beautiful 16th-century frescoes that adorn its walls, making it a popular choice for day-trippers and pilgrims alike. You can learn history, culture, and heritage through these magnificent monuments in Cyprus
Prominent Features:

1. Established in 1170 A.D. by Monks from Cappadocia 2. Located in the village of Lysserio in the Solea Valley 3. Home to many artifacts, including a copy of the Acritic Songs 4. Contains rare historic frescoes 5. Houses a museum showcasing post-Byzantine icons 6. Listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1985 7. Site of the 1000 year celebration of Cyprus' Christianity in 1990 8. Contains a massive library containing more than 10,000 books, manuscripts, and scrolls, some of which date as far back as the 12th century. 9. Sanctified by Cypriot Catholics 10. Focal point of pilgrimages for the Greek Orthodox Church This national monument of Cyprus portrays the history and culture of the country.

History:

Machairas Monastery is a Greek Orthodox monastery located on the slopes of the Machairas Mountain in the Kyrenia district of northern Cyprus. It was founded in the 12th century by St. John, a hermit and ascetic monk. The monastery is dedicated to the Theotokos (Mother of God) and the main church within the monastery is called the Monastery of John the Hermit. The monastery is considered to be one of the oldest and most important monasteries in the entire Eastern Mediterranean. The monastery’s history dates back to the Byzantine period in Cyprus. The first known written mention of the monastery can be found in a document dating back to 1244, where the monastic complex is referenced to as Monasterio Vio Machairou. The monastery flourished throughout the years under the patronage of both Byzantine and Frankish rulers until the Ottomans conquered the island in 1570. Despite the passage of time, the monastery remains well preserved to this day with its iconic bell tower and main church. The bell tower, or Madoutza, was built in 1726 but was destroyed in an earthquake in 1950 and had to be rebuilt. The main church was repainted in the 17th century and has been well preserved, despite its smaller size when compared to larger churches like Agia Sophia. The monastery itself is seen as a symbol of the resistance against occupation of the island of Cyprus by the Ottomans and the Greek Cypriot struggle for freedom which began in the 20th century. Today, the monastery serves as an important pilgrimage site for Greek Orthodox Christians from all over the world. You must visit one of these historical places in Cyprus on your Cyprus tour

Interesting facts:

1. The Machairas Monastery was founded in the late 11th century by St. Neophytos, a monk from Constantinople who lived a hermit’s life on the mountain overlooking the Mesariá Valley. 2. The monastery complex serves as a historical monument, as well as a living monastery, to this day. 3. The monastery has been destroyed and reconstructed several times and is currently undergoing restoration work. 4. It is thought to contain an important collection of Byzantine-era manuscripts. 5. Despite its turbulent history, the Machairas Monastery has several surviving icons, some of which date back to the 13th century. 6. The Machairas Monastery holds holy relics, including bones believed to be those of St Neophytos. 7. It is located on an altitude of about 900 m and has a magnificent view of the valley. 8. Near the monastery are the remains of a castle which was built by the Franks in the 15th century and served as a refuge during the Ottoman period. 9. A large area of natural beauty furnished with spectacular views of the surrounding mountains and sea has been declared recently as the Machairas National Forest Park. 10. The monastery is still inhabited by several monks and their families, who maintain and guard it with pride. Visit one of the famous monuments of Cyprus with your friends and family.