AN EASY RELAXING ESCAPE
A MONASTERY FOR NUNS NEAR LIMASSOL
The monastery that lies approximately 6 km east of the City of Limassol can trace its origins back to the 11th century. The first written reference to it however appears int the late 16th century. It has endured numerous raids and acts of destruction over the ages, eventually falling into a state of disrepair and neglect. It was eventually restored after years of abandonment in the 1970’s with nuns from the Monastery of St. George Alamanos relocated there in 1977.
THE HEALING ICON OF THE VIRGIN MARY
It is believed that the name Sfalangiotissa is linked to an icon of the Holy Virgin Mary that is housed in the monastery. This icon is notable for its several miraculous healings that have been recorded by the nuns. Sfalangi was a type of rare venomous insect that was once found in the immediate area around the monastery. Its bite could sometimes be fatal and afflicted people would travel to the monastery to receive healing from its famous icon.
A STUNNING PHOTO OPPORTUNITY
The monastery today offers a relaxing, easy escape. As well as the Icon of the Virgin Mary Sfalangiotissa, the monastery also has an onsite bakery. This allows visitors to purchase freshly baked monastery bread. Olive oil and farm-fresh eggs, from the surrounding area are also available for purchase. The on-site workshop allows visitors to commission church vestments, iconostases, and even personalised icons. Special services, including commemorations, liturgies, forty-day prayers for Lent, annual memorials, and supplications to the Virgin Mary, are also regularly performed by its clergy. A visit to the monastery is completed by a stunning photo opportunity from the monastery’s observation deck, which offers breathtaking elevated views.Â
INTERCITY BUS TO LIMASSOL & THEN BUS 14 OR 41 TOWARDS AYIOS ATHANASIOS
