The Museum of the Holy Monastery of Kykko is a key cultural and religious museum in Cyprus. It sits within the historic Kykko Monastery, dedicated to the Virgin Mary, founded in the 11th century by Byzantine Emperor Alexios I Komnenos.
This Museum is a vital part of the Monastery, acting like a treasury. It displays icons, sacred vessels, wood carvings, vestments, embroideries, manuscripts, and more. These items are not just museum pieces; they show the worship and history of the Monastery.
Opened in May 1998, the Museum has a rich collection of religious relics and artworks. You can find ecclesiastical items, old maps, engravings, ancient findings, and many documents that highlight the region’s cultural heritage.
Most ecclesiastical items—like vestments, icons, books, and manuscripts—have been part of the Monastery for centuries. The Museum also shows items that were once looted from Cyprus and sold abroad. These were later found, bought at auctions, and brought back home.
A key part of the Museum is the Conservation Laboratory for manuscripts, icons, and monastic relics. Here, skilled staff work on conserving and restoring the Monastery’s vast collection.
Besides what’s on display, many items are stored in special areas. All items are recorded, photographed, and organized into collections. To fully digitize its collections, the Museum has created an electronic documentation system. This system keeps detailed records of each item along with photos and notes on conservation work done on both its own collections and those from outside sources (like Metropolises or private individuals).
The Museum’s collections include:
- Archaeological Collection
- Icon Collection
- Document, Book and Manuscript Collection
- Map Collection
- Textile Collection
- Engraving Collection
- Painting Collection
- Numismatic Collection
- Lead Seal Collection
- Photographic Collection
- Folk Art Collection
- Ceramics Collection
Museum Opening Hours (Main Monastery):
- Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 17:00 (winter hours)
- Monday – Sunday: 10:00 – 18:00 (summer hours)
- Closed on public holidays
Museum hours and admission rights may change without notice. Visitors should check before their visit.
The Archangel Foundation Office:
- Monday – Wednesday: 08:00 – 12:00
The Museum of the Holy Monastery of Kykko is more than just an exhibition space. It’s a living testament to memory, faith, and culture. Visitors get a unique chance to explore Cyprus’s rich ecclesiastical and historical tradition.
