Perched on a rocky peak, 750 metres above sea level, legend tells that Stavrovouni Monastery was founded in the 4th century by St. Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine the Great, who left a relic of the Holy Cross at the monastery.
The monks have strict rules akin to those at Mount Athos in Greece. Women are not permitted to enter the monastery, nor is the use of camera or video permitted. Men visiting must be appropriately dressed.
In contrast, the monastery of Agia Varvara on the foothills of Stavrovouni is accessible to all visitors, and the monks here are known for their iconography skills.
An impressive annual ceremony and festival is held at Stavrovouni Monastery on September 14 to mark the day of the Raising of the Holy Cross.
Region: Larnaka (Larnaca)
Address: 40km from Larnaka, 9km off the Lefkosia (Nicosia) – Lemesos (Limassol) road
Contact No: Tel: +357 22 533 630
Operating Hours: September – March: 07:00 – 11:00 / 14:00 – 17:00
April – August: 07:00 – 12:00 / 15:00 – 19:00
Operating Period: All year round.
Closed on Public Holidays.
Entrance Fee: Free
Opening and closing times as well as entrance fees, are subject to alterations without notice. Visitors are advised to check before visiting.
Courtesy of the CTO
