We will spend this day in the Troodos mountains, visiting great Christian shrines:
- Monastery of John the Baptist
- Trooditis Monastery, where the Belt of the Virgin Mary is kept
- convent Trikukya: the first “place of residence” of the miraculous Kykkos icon
- Monastery of the Holy Cross in the village of Omodos
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We will go to the monastery of John the Baptist, the closest predecessor of Jesus Christ, and who predicted the coming of the Messiah. John led the life of an ascetic, preached and performed sacred ablutions for the cleansing of sins and for the repentance of the Jews, which later became known as the sacrament of baptism. He was the one who baptized Jesus himself. John the Baptist is one of the few canonized saints who is considered a historical figure: his mention in all known manuscripts of Josephus' Antiquities of the Jews is recognized by most researchers as authentic texts. The monks of the monastery of John the Baptist collect mountain herbs, engage in beekeeping, and bake amazingly tasty bread according to their own recipes.
Then we will rise to an altitude of about 1500 meters above sea level to visit the Orthodox monastery of Trooditis, which is one of oldest monasteries Cyprus. The priceless relics of the monastery are the miraculous image of the Mother of God, discovered in the cell of a hermit monk many centuries ago, and the Belt of the Virgin Mary, known for miracles of healing from infertility and other serious diseases.
The next monastery we will visit is the Trikukya convent, where we will definitely be treated to tea, bread and very tasty jam, which the nuns prepare themselves. They say that the great miraculous icon of Kykkos, brought to the islands, lived for several years in this monastery, awaiting the completion of the construction of its new home. The miraculous image of the Mother of God resides in the Tricuchia Monastery. It is noteworthy that St. Seraphim of Sarov is highly revered in this monastery. You can see his icons in the temple. And among the sisters of the monastery is the nun Seraphima, named in honor of the saint.
We will descend from the mountains through the famous village of Omodos. This village is famous for its pristine beauty, winemaking traditions, fragrant bread, for which residents come from all surrounding villages, and, of course, the Monastery of the Holy Cross, which was founded by order of St. Helena back in the 3rd century.
There is a legend according to which almost two thousand years ago local residents noticed a glow in one of the caves near the village. In this cave a life-giving cross was found, from which miracles and healings occurred. A small chapel was erected above the cave, pilgrims flocked to it, and subsequently a monastery was founded on this site. It was named the Monastery of the Holy Cross.
The main shrines of the Monastery of the Holy Cross are a particle of the Life-giving Cross and a fragment of the rope (the Bond of Christ), which tied Christ’s hands to the pillar during the scourging. The monastery houses a large number of Orthodox shrines, the most important of which is the head of the Apostle Philip, located in a special ark.
Once in the village of Omodos, you can’t help but stroll through the narrow streets of the mountain village! We will visit the ethnographic museum, look into one of the most ancient wineries on the island, where an old wooden press has been preserved - there you will learn about the traditions of winemaking in Cyprus, and you will also be able to taste traditional Cypriot alcoholic drinks: white and red wines, the famous “Commandaria”, “ Zivania." And, of course, when you come to Omodos you can’t ignore the local handicrafts! You can purchase elegant napkins and lace created by the residents of this village.
Video about the Kykkos Monastery, where the miraculous icon of the Mother of God is kept,
written by the Apostle Luke during the life of the Virgin Mary
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A small church from the 16th century in Byzantine style. It has well-preserved frescoes with scenes from the Old and New Testaments.
Panagia Theotoku is located a few kilometers from Kakopetria. Main temple was founded in 1502, and until about the middle of the last century the building was occupied by monks. The monastery church is rectangular with a semicircular apse and sealed porticoes. Its roof is sloping and tiled, and the floor inside is covered with terracotta tiles. The interior of the church is poor, but the wall paintings are perfectly preserved. On the north and south sides there are unfinished frescoes depicting the apostles Peter and Paul. The frescoes are made in the Renaissance style (bright colors and three-dimensional detailing of objects). There is also a whole series of frescoes depicting moments from the earthly life of Christ.
Next to the Panagia Teotiku temple there is another church - Panagia Podito. Both have no artificial lighting. Both are looked after by the same caretaker. If it is not in the temple, ask at the nearest coffee shop.
Monastery of the Kykkos Icon of the Mother of God
The Kykkos Monastery is a functioning monastery in Cyprus. It was founded by the Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos around the end of the 11th century.
The monastery, about the origin of which there are many different legends, is located at an altitude of 1200 m above sea level, in the western part of the Troodos mountain range. This is one of the most famous monasteries in Cyprus, dedicated to Panagia (St. Mary) Eleusa. Its full name is the Royal Stavropegial St. Kykkos Monastery. The holy miraculous Icon of the Mother of God, painted by the Apostle Luke, has been in the monastery for more than 900 years.
During the period of its existence, the monastery was destroyed by fires 4 times and was attacked by looters, but each time the icon was miraculously saved. Since 1997, there has been a museum here, where you can see many relics of the monastery.
Machairas Monastery
Monastery of the Virgin Mary in the Troodos Mountains. The miraculous icon painted by the Apostle Luke is kept here.
The Monastery of the Virgin Mary Macheras in the Troodos Mountains near Nicosia is one of the central monasteries for Orthodox Christians and one of three stauropegial monasteries Cyprus. It was founded in the 12th century on the slope of Mount Macheras at an altitude of 870 m near the village of Kioni. The monastery complex burned down and was completed several times. In 1900, a covered arcade 19 meters high was added.
Initially the monastery was a small monastery. Its first monks, Neophyte and Ignatius, according to legend, at this place found an icon of the Mother of God, once brought to the island by an unknown hermit. The authorship of the icon is attributed to the Apostle Luke. In the 14th century, when the plague was sweeping across Europe, the royal family took refuge from it in this monastery. Now the monastery is open to tourists. Pilgrims and simply curious people who come here are offered a tour of the monastery, which usually ends in the forest. Tourists are given the opportunity to be alone with themselves and enjoy the beauty of the surrounding nature. Women are not allowed into the monastery territory.
Monastery of the Blessed Virgin Mary of Troodos (Trooditissa)
An ancient Orthodox monastery located in a picturesque mountainous area between Troodos and Platres. Pilgrims from all over the world come to this place to ask the Holy Virgin for relief from infertility.
The highest and at the same time easily accessible monastery in Cyprus. It is located between Troodos and Platres, 5 km from Platres. The monastery was erected on the site of the discovery of the icon of the Mother of God of Trooditissa. According to legend, it was founded by a hermit who retired from the world. The first mentions of the monastery date back to the 14th century. However, for a long time he did not attract much attention. Travelers coming to these parts found it in desolation and ruin. In the mid-19th century, the monastery burned down, after which it was restored and completed.
The main shrine of the monastery is the miraculous icon of the Mother of God with a baby in her arms; people pray to her for the gift of a child. If you ask, they will show you a whole box of photographs from different countries. All of them are smiling mothers with little children.
Ayia Moni Monastery
High in the Troodos Mountains, in a picturesque ravine, stands one of the oldest monasteries in Cyprus - the monastery of Ayia Moni, dedicated to St. Nicholas. This is one of the oldest monasteries in Cyprus - it was founded in the 6th century. The monastery complex consists of several buildings that are completely different from each other. This is because the monastery itself was expanded, rebuilt, and each new building was erected taking into account the architectural style of the era in which construction took place. The founders of the monastery are monks Eutykhios and Nikolai. Now the monastery of Agia Moni is attached to the monastery of Chryssoyarotis. Only one monk lives here - Father Epiphanius. By the way, girls pray to Saint Nicholas asking for a good groom.
The average person can ask a logical question, already assuming the answer to it: “What to see in the mountains, besides the mountains?” Let us prove that in the mountains, namely in the Troodos Mountains, there is something to see. And we’ll start our story with mountain villages.
The village of Omodos is famous for its local wine, beautiful vineyards, sweets, and hand-embroidered items and glass masterpieces.
In Agros you will be treated to rose products: water, brandy, liqueur. You can also observe the process of their manufacture at the Chris N. Tsolakis company.
You will try a variety of fish products, and also learn everything about fish farming in the village of Kalopanagiotis.
Kakopetria will greet you with hotels, restaurants and, most importantly, attractions of the Middle Ages. Among them is the temple of Agios Nikolas tis Stegis (11th century).
Just a kilometer from Kakopetria is its neighbor - Galata. Residents of the village are proud of the presence of the churches of Panagia Poditou and Panagia Theotokos, built in the 16th century. Religious buildings include Venetian and Byzantine paintings.
The British, who ruled the island at one time, knew how to make money on its climate and attractions. In the 20th century, the settlement of Pano Platres was turned into a mountain resort for the colonial administration. Nowadays, everyone can ski here. You can also learn the secrets of trout breeding, which the village residents will willingly share. You will also enjoy a walk to the Caledonia and Millomeris waterfalls.
You will see the unique Church of the Archangel Michael, created in the 5th century, in the village of Pedoulas, which is also famous for its cherry orchards.
The village of Lefkara is world famous. Lace brought her popularity. A kind of embroidery (lefkaritika) is even depicted on the banknotes of Cyprus (just below the coat of arms of the republic). There is also a Folk Art Museum in the village, the temple of Tou Timiou Stavrou (there is a silver cross from the 18th century here).
Source of Mutullas mineral water popular among tourists. Local craftsmen are also famous for their wooden tubs.
In the village of Fini you will be surprised by the master potters. The Fanis Pilavakis Folk Art Museum is also located here.
In Agios Ioannis you will be taken on a special train to visit an ostrich farm.
Residents of the village of Prodroomos have a lot to say mysterious stories about ghosts. There is an abandoned Hotel Berengaria, very similar to a castle. In 1984, the hotel went bankrupt, but “did not die”, but continued its life in folk tales. Prodroomos produces the best apple harvest in Cyprus.
The biggest Mountain chain in Cyprus - Troodos. The nature of these mountains is unique in many ways. In mountain forests you can find several endemic species of trees and shrubs, i.e. those that do not grow anywhere else in the world. But the Troodos Mountains are not only distinguished by their picturesque landscapes. Here tourists will find many attractions and interesting places.
Climate
The Troodos Mountains in Cyprus have the same climate as the rest of the island - Mediterranean, with cool winters and hot summers. However, there is much more rainfall in the mountains, and winters are colder. That is why ski resorts are organized here. They are not as popular as alpine ones, but they are also in demand among those who like to ski or snowboard from the slopes. 
In summer, it is a little cooler in the mountains than on the streets of resort towns. Therefore, tourists are happy to come here on all kinds of excursions. You can get to many places on your own; the resorts of Paphos or Polis are very close. However, you should be careful mountain roads, there are many narrow and winding sections.
Monasteries of Troodos
Troodos in Cyprus is famous for the abundance of holy places that are significant for pilgrims. However, ordinary tourists will also be interested in looking at them.
- . The buildings of the monastery have unusual architecture, and the interiors are richly decorated. And the most important church relic of the monastery was the icon of the Kykkos Mother of God. She is credited with miraculous properties.
- Stavrovouni Monastery. Female visitors are prohibited from entering here. Only men can experience a little of the life of monks. The monastery houses part of the cross on which Jesus was crucified.
- Trooditissa Monastery is famous for its unique ritual. If the spouses want children, they must come to the monastery together, and the abbot will put the Belt of the Virgin Mary on his wife. It is believed that it will help a woman become pregnant.
- Chrysoroyatissa Monastery. This place is known for its heroic history. In the 19th century, the abbot and monks who supported the Greek uprising for independence were executed by the Ottomans. The monastery has a museum where you can see evidence of those events and various church utensils.
These are not all the holy places of the Troodos Mountains. More can be seen on the various excursions offered in Cyprus.
Villages of Troodos
The mountain villages in these places are known not only for their picturesque views. Each has some attractions or a special type of folk craft. If you are offered an excursion to one of them (or several at once), do not refuse. Will you visit interesting excursion and buy a Cypriot souvenir as a souvenir.
- Omodos. About three hundred residents live here, and the main occupation of the adult population is winemaking. In the village you can see an old wine press. You can also go on an excursion to the house-museum with an exhibition of village furnishings and life.
- Pedoulas. There are Ethnographic and Byzantine museums in the village. And the locals will treat you to apples and cherries; they are mainly involved in gardening.
- Kalopanagiotis. This village is primarily unique for its surroundings; there are many hiking trails around. From different points there are picturesque views of the mountains and the local reservoir. There is a trout farm there.
- Lefkara. Local “lefkaritika” lace is known throughout the world. Silver products are also made here. In Lefkara it is pleasant to stroll along the clean streets and sit in one of the cafes.
Scenic spots and attractions with interesting story There are quite a few in the Troodos Mountains. By going there on an excursion, you can learn a lot of new things, walk around mountain routes and admire the beautiful scenery.
Troodos Mountains
The Troodos Mountains, due to their height, are covered with snow in winter. This popular resort for skiers during skiing months. Tourists and locals alike visit the mountains during the summer to take a break from the scorching summer heat down at sea level. Walk through the forest on one of the nature trails and take in the wonderful smells and aromas and enjoy looking at the waterfalls and surrounding views.
The Troodos Mountains are unique in their geology and one of the few places in the world where scientists can study the oceanic crust without having to go to the sea. An undersea volcano that erupted 90 million years ago and the reason the island was formed gave rise to the pillow of lava that is observed throughout the mountains. The Troodos area is also home to one of the 5 most rich copper districts in the world. Some say that the island's name "Kypros" comes from the Latin name for copper, "copper".
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The villages in Troodos are very pretty, and contain folk architecture and cobbled streets. Situated on the slopes of the mountains, they are mainly located among gardens, vineyards and pine trees, complete with corresponding smells and aromas. These rural villages are renowned for their warm hospitality, welcoming traditional local cuisine.
Winter season
The Troodos Mountains in winter are a magical place to be. Perfectly clear atmosphere, snow, blue skies and breathtaking scenery attracts everyone, including skiers and amateurs winter species sports Mount Olympus is located on top of the Troodos mountain and this is a traditional local name"Chionistra" translated means "snowy one", and is very popular for snowboarders and skiers, whether they are beginners or pros.
Troodos Nature Trails
Troodos is picture perfect for hiking and exploring. With varying degrees of slopes, it is great for people of all ages and abilities. Refer to Cyprus Nature Trails and European Intercity Path E4 publications for lists of available trails. A complete network of amazing walking routes, starting either from the top of the Troodos Mountains, with unspoilt views of the sea and nearby villages or across rivers, where the sounds of nature mix with the beauty of trees and plants invite you to a lifetime of experiences beyond your imagination and expectations. Live in the moment. Enhance your senses and experience to the fullest of one of the most beautiful places worldwide.
Cyprus, being predominantly Christian Orthodox, has a large number of Byzantine monuments. Ten of them hold such historical and artistic significance and hold such importance that UNESCO included them in its list of sites world heritage. All ten churches, dating from the 11th to 17th centuries, are located in the Troodos mountainous region. The route has been geographically divided into three regions in order to travel them properly and in a convenient way: Marathasa route: Kalopanagiotis - MOUTULLAS - Pedoulas (path length 148 km). This route includes the monuments of Marathasa: the monastery of Agios Ioannis toy Lambadisti in Kalopanagiotis, the Church of Panagia in Moutoula and the Church of the Archangel Michael in Pedoulas...
Cycling can be enjoyed all year round to Troodos. Enjoying quiet paved roads, stunning scenery, great cycling terrain and enlivening fresh air. The official "Troodos cycling routes" are 57 km long around national park Troodos is complete with a map of the area, directional signs, road markings and a complete bike guide for the area. Nowhere in this natural, 57 kilometer chain does the altitude differ by more than 400 meters. It's as if Mother Nature conspired to keep cyclists rested and relaxed.
Troodos has unique ecclesiastical, folk art and wine (Old Wine Press) Museums which they relate to civilization, culture and tradition. Hidden in the pine forests of Troodos, Cyprus' famous painted churches, with their colorful frescoes on the walls and apses, are magnificent examples of Byzantine art. Ten of them have been included in the UNESCO World Heritage List. Kykkos Monastery, the largest on the island, has an excellent Byzantine museum and a golden an icon of the Virgin Mary, allegedly painted by the Evangelist Luke.
Troodos has abundant picnic areas, which lie under the auspices of the Cyprus Forestry Department. They are located where access is easy, where there is shade and water. There are a range of options available; tables, sanitary equipment, playgrounds, barbecue sites, drinking water, parking lots and friends - all free. Troodos has three campsites where camping is permitted for a small fee per night. The place offers basic facilities such as grilling areas, drinking water, benches, tables and washrooms. There are 5 state forest campsites with a total capacity of 2,400 persons, where camping is permitted for a small fee per night. The Forestry Department manages three of these campsites, while the other two, which are also on state forest land, are managed by other agencies. They provide facilities like barbecues, drinking water, tables and washrooms.
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The Xantara waterfall is located on the Trooditissa River (also known as Diplos Potamos) in the village of Fini, which lies at 3,400 feet above sea level and is part of the state forest. The water falls from a height of 26 feet. Situated on the outskirts of the village of Platres in Troodos Caledonia Falls is one of the highest falls in Cyprus. The water falls from a height of 40 feet. You can reach it through the path leading to it. The water that falls from Mesa Potamos Falls, being mostly gabbro rock, falls from a height of 23 feet. In Platres you can see Fall Millomeri, famous for its natural splendor. The water here falls from a height of 50 feet. Some of the falls are difficult to access as they have only recently been discovered.
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The Troodos Mountains have natural river networks that flow during the winter months into surrounding dams and rivers in wider areas of the island, in all directions, thereby contributing to the island's water levels, which are very often extremely stretched during the intense heat of the summer. The dams are stocked with 17 species of fish. The most popular are: Trout, perch, carp, Tike perch, roach, etc. Six dams in Troodos provide great opportunities freshwater fishing throughout the year.These are: - Kafizes dam - Kalopanagiotis dam - Palechori dam - Prodromos dam - Xyliatos dam - Asprokremmos dam.
