11/29/2023
The Stavrovouni Monastery is perched precariously at the top of Stavrovouni, the ‘Mountain of the Cross’. Built sometime between 327 and 329, this ancient monastery is believed to be the oldest on the island of Cyprus.
The main reason pilgrims make the steep journey up to this mountain monastery is because of the piece of the Holy Cross preserved within solid silver inside the church. It was supposedly brought back by St. Helena – the mother of Emperor Constantine – after her travels to Jerusalem.
While women are not permitted to enter the monastery, the trip is worth it for the views of the Mesaoria plain alone, stretching towards the Mediterranean in the distance. While male visitors explore the monastery with its bell tower and arched cloisters, female visitors can visit the smaller Church of the All Saints just outside.