A Brief History
The site—formerly known as Episcopia—may have sheltered the Bishop of Kyrenia during early Arab raids. After Jerusalem’s fall in 1187, the Canons Regular of the Holy Sepulchre arrived, and between 1198 and 1205 Aimery de Lusignan founded the Abbey of St. Mary of the Mountain. In 1206 the White Canons (Premonstratensians) took over, giving rise to the local name “White Abbey.” The main church, cloister, and refectory were expanded under Kings Hugh III (1267–1284) and Hugh IV (1324–1359). Over centuries of Genoese raids, Venetian rule, Ottoman conquest, and British administration, the Abbey saw neglect, adaptation as a parish church, and even service as a military hospital Wikipedia.
Architectural Highlights
- The Church: Its nave, side aisles, and sacristy remain remarkably intact. A single surviving belfry bell and intricately carved pulpit recall its sacred role Wikipedia.
- The Cloister: Eighteen graceful Gothic arches surround a peaceful garden. Under one arch, two Roman sarcophagi once served as lavabos, their upper basin feeding water to the lower Wikipedia.
- The Refectory: This 30 m × 10 m hall features a projecting pulpit, rose window, and coats of arms lintel above its entrance. It now hosts concerts and lectures against a historic stone backdrop.
- Chapter House & Undercroft: Once the Abbey’s administrative heart and workshop, these spaces still display Gothic carvings and vaulted ceilings.
Bellapais Today
Designated a museum, Bellapais Abbey welcomes visitors daily. You’ll find:
- On‑site Café & Restaurant: Sample Turkish‑Cypriot meze beneath the vaulted refectory Wikipedia.
- Cultural Events: Early‑summer music festivals animate the cloister, while seasonal art exhibitions make full use of the Abbey’s atmospheric rooms Wikipedia.
- Guided Tours: Local guides bring its Crusader paths, legends, and architectural details to life.
Visiting Tips
- Location: Just 5 km north of Kyrenia via scenic mountain roads.
- Hours & Tickets: Open daily; entry fees are modest, with reduced rates for students and seniors.
- Best Time to Go: Late afternoon for golden‑light photography or early summer for the Bellapais Music Festival.
- What to Bring: Comfortable shoes for uneven stone floors, sun protection, and a camera for the sweeping sea views.
Conclusion
Bellapais Abbey stands as a testament to Cyprus’s layered history—from Crusader refuge to cultural landmark. Whether you linger in the cloister’s calm, explore Gothic details, or dine under medieval vaults, this “Abbey of Peace” promises an unforgettable journey through time. Cyprus Wines and Spirits