10 Things to Do in St. George Monastery, Famagusta, Cyprus
St. George Monastery, located in the town of Famagusta in Cyprus, is a beautiful and historic site that is a must-see for visitors to the region. The monastery is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture, with its intricate stone carvings, impressive domes, and ancient frescoes. Visitors to the monastery can explore the grounds, marvel at the art and architecture, and learn about the history of the site. Here are 10 things to do in St. George Monastery.
1. Visit the Church of St. George. The Church of St. George is the main attraction at St. George Monastery. The church was built in the 11th century and is the oldest surviving Byzantine church in Cyprus. Inside, visitors can admire the stunning frescoes, which depict scenes from the Bible. The church also houses a number of ancient artifacts, including a fragment of the True Cross.
2. Explore the Monastery Grounds. The monastery grounds are a great place to explore. The grounds are filled with lush vegetation and beautiful gardens. Visitors can stroll through the gardens and admire the various plants and flowers.
3. Visit the Museum. The museum at St. George Monastery is a great place to learn about the history of the site. The museum houses a number of artifacts, including ancient coins, pottery, and jewelry.
4. Attend a Service. St. George Monastery is still a functioning monastery and visitors can attend services. Services are held in the Church of St. George and are open to the public.
5. Take a Guided Tour. Guided tours of the monastery are available and are a great way to learn more about the site. The tours typically last about an hour and include a visit to the Church of St. George and the museum.
6. Visit the Icon Gallery. The Icon Gallery at St. George Monastery is a great place to admire the monastery’s collection of Byzantine icons. The gallery houses a number of icons, including some that date back to the 12th century.
7. Admire the Frescoes. The frescoes at St. George Monastery are some of the best examples of Byzantine art in Cyprus. The frescoes depict scenes from the Bible and are a must-see for visitors to the monastery.
8. Explore the Library. The library at St. George Monastery is home to a number of ancient manuscripts and books. Visitors can explore the library and admire the various texts.
9. Visit the Gift Shop. The gift shop at St. George Monastery is a great place to pick up souvenirs and mementos. The shop sells a variety of items, including books, postcards, and jewelry.
10. Enjoy the Views. St. George Monastery is located atop a hill, providing visitors with stunning views of the surrounding area. Visitors can take in the views of the Mediterranean Sea and the city of Famagusta.
St. George Monastery is a must-see for visitors to Famagusta. The monastery is a stunning example of Byzantine architecture and art, and visitors can explore the grounds, attend services, and admire the views. Whether you’re looking to learn about the history of the site or just want to take in the beauty of the monastery, St. George Monastery is a great place to visit.